Recently in Chongjin, while overall efforts have been focused on coal exports to China, a bridge connecting the eastern and western parts of the city has been built for the first time in at least 20 years. This appears to be part of the economic capacity and changes resulting from closer ties with Russia. In addition, unusual activity has been observed across major cities in N.K., including the renovation of residential houses, the construction of high-rise apartments, improvements to correctional facilities, and the dismantling of ships. How deep or long-lasting these changes will be depended largely on the country’s relationship with Russia, with the eventual end of the war in Ukraine likely serving as a key turning point.