North Korean leader and General Secretary Kim Jong Un is expected to embark on his journey to China on Monday, utilizing his private train. The trip from Pyongyang to Beijing typically requires at least 16 to 20 hours by rail, suggesting he may depart on this day to arrive on Tuesday, just before the Victory Day celebrations.
Multiple government sources reported on Monday that Kim is likely to board his private train in Pyongyang and head towards China.
China Railway Corporation’s official ticket booking system, 12306, shows that train services from Dandong in Liaoning Province to Beijing have been temporarily halted on Monday and Tuesday. Analysts believe this is linked to Kim’s visit to China.
The distance from Dandong to Beijing is roughly 1,000 km (about 621 miles) by high-speed rail. Given that Kim’s private train, the Taeyangho, travels at speeds of 50 to 60 km/h (about 31 to 37 mph), experts estimate the journey could take 16 to 20 hours, potentially extending to a full day.
The train is anticipated to depart from Pyongyang, pass through Sinuiju on the northwestern border, then traverse Dandong, Shenyang, and Tianjin before reaching Beijing. This route mirrors Kim’s last visit to China in January 2019, likely chosen for its proven safety record.
Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, noted that while recent floods and heavy rains could impact rail conditions, the established route remains the most probable choice, given its historical precedent and accumulated experience.
Hong added that the route’s historical significance shouldn’t be overlooked. Further noting that following in the footsteps of previous leaders carries symbolic weight and has been used in propaganda materials. He added that these factors make the existing route the most logical choice.
Kim has made four trips to China, twice by private train and twice by private aircraft. His inaugural visit in March 2018 was by train, followed by air travel in May and June of the same year. He reverted to rail transport for his January 2019 visit.
Notably, the Chammae 1, Kim’s private jet frequently used early in his tenure, hasn’t been confirmed in use since 2018. This modified Soviet-era Ilyushin (IL)-62M has raised numerous safety concerns due to its outdated design.
Kim’s private train, dubbed the moving fortress, boasts thick steel plating and is reportedly equipped with an office, bedroom, and state-of-the-art weaponry and communication systems.
The train’s body, windows, and floor are constructed with thick steel, engineered to provide substantial protection against potential bomb attacks. It can also transport Kim’s personal vehicle and features lavishly appointed accommodations for lodging and meetings.