North Korea is installing support columns between the main ones to support the deck, then removing them once stable. This construction method likely stems from a lack of confidence in the main columns’ load-bearing capacity. It appears they are applying an excessively conservative approach to compensate for a shortage of heavy cranes and transport equipment capable of lifting large deck sections at once, while also aiming to meet the strict deadline and avoid accountability for potential structural failures. Additionally, high-ranking North Korean officials are expected to attend the completion ceremony in June.

On the Russian side, construction of the bridge, border control, and customs facilities is moving fast with a large amount of heavy equipment. With nine buildings currently under construction in the rear area, completion by June seems on track.

In contrast, North Korea has only finished the exterior of its border control building and has not yet started on the large-scale customs facility. However, given North Korea’s history of “Speed Battles”, they are expected to finish within 2 to 3 months, ensuring the June completion ceremony proceeds without issue.