North Korea sits at the northern tip of the Korean Peninsula, and its borders play a big role in regional trade, diplomacy and security. Looking at who it touches on land helps make sense of supply routes, checkpoints and historical ties.
There are 3 countries that border north korea — China, Russia and South Korea, a span that runs from China in the northwest down to South Korea in the south. For each country you’ll find below the Flag (emoji), Border length (km), and Major crossings so you can quickly compare where and how North Korea meets its neighbors — you’ll find the details below.
How long are North Korea’s land borders with its neighbors?
North Korea’s longest land border is with China (measured in the low thousands of kilometers), a much shorter frontier with South Korea along the DMZ (a few hundred kilometers), and a very short border with Russia (only a few dozen kilometers). Exact figures vary by source, but that gives the relative scale.
Are there official crossing points between North Korea and each neighboring country?
Yes — crossings are limited and tightly controlled. China–North Korea crossings include bridges and river ports (e.g., Dandong), Russia–North Korea has a small rail/road link near Khasan, and the inter-Korean frontier is managed through the DMZ with very restricted checkpoints like Panmunjom used only for specific diplomatic or military movements.
Countries that Border North Korea
| Country | Flag (emoji) | Border length (km) | Major crossings |
|---|---|---|---|
| China | 🇨🇳 | 1,416 | Dandong (Sinuiju) — Sino–Korean Friendship Bridge; Tumen; Ji’an |
| South Korea | 🇰🇷 | 238 | Panmunjom (JSA); Dorasan rail; Kaesong crossing |
| Russia | 🇷🇺 | 18 | Khasan–Tumangang bridge (rail and road) |
Descriptions
China
China shares the longest border with North Korea (1,416 km), following the Yalu and Tumen rivers. Major crossings concentrate at Dandong (Sinuiju) and Tumen. Cross-border trade is vital, tightly controlled; civilian travel requires permits and is heavily regulated by both governments.
South Korea
South Korea shares the heavily militarized Korean Demilitarized Zone with North Korea (about 238 km). Major points include Panmunjom (JSA), Dorasan rail crossing, and Kaesong. Crossings are restricted to diplomatic or special-tourist programs; ordinary travel across the DMZ is prohibited.
Russia
Russia borders North Korea along a short stretch near the Tumen River (about 18 km). The primary crossing is the Khasan–Tumangang bridge. The border is strategically important for rail access; crossings are limited and tightly controlled with infrequent civilian transit.
