China and North Korea

China scores 62/100 toward North Korea (friendliness, support), while North Korea scores 60/100 back.

China toward North Korea

China continues facilitating North Korea trade (coal imports flowing despite UN ban, new trade facility progress) and Wang Yi publicly called on the US to drop its 'hostile policy' toward North Korea, signaling protective diplomatic support. However, CSIS notes a 'reset' in relations amid concerns about NK-Russia military cooperation shifting China's calculus.

North Korea toward China

North Korea-China trade continues but imports are slipping for a third consecutive month, suggesting some economic friction. North Korea maintains dependence on China as its primary trade partner and sanctions buffer, but deepening Russia ties slightly reduce that reliance, keeping the relationship functionally cooperative but not deeply warm.

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