Chinese President Xi Jinping Begins Two-Day Visit to North Korea
Chinese President Xi Jinping arrived in Pyongyang on Monday, June 8, 2026, for a two-day state visit, marking his first trip to North Korea since 2019. The Chinese leader was greeted by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and his wife, Ri Sol-ju, at the airport, according to state broadcaster CCTV. This visit represents Xi’s first overseas trip of the year.
Who Accompanied the Chinese President?
President Xi is traveling with a high-level delegation to support his diplomatic objectives. According to reports from the South China Morning Post, the Chinese leader is being accompanied by his top aide, Cai Qi, and Foreign Minister Wang Yi. These officials are central to the diplomatic coordination of the visit, which follows recent rhetoric from Beijing regarding the nature of the relationship between the two nations.
How Was the Delegation Received in Pyongyang?
The arrival featured significant state ceremony, reflecting the diplomatic importance of the visit. CCTV footage documented a red carpet arrival at the airport, where an honor guard stood in formation. Two North Korean children were present to offer flower bouquets to Xi and his wife, Peng Liyuan.
Following the airport arrival, the leaders participated in a grand welcome ceremony at Kim Il-sung Square. As the primary venue for North Korea’s major political celebrations and military parades, the square serves as the central hub for public state events in Pyongyang. Following these ceremonies, Kim and Ri escorted the Chinese delegation to the Kumsusan State Guest House, where the visitors are staying for the duration of the trip.
What Is the Significance of This Diplomatic Visit?
This trip is the first visit by a Chinese president to North Korea since 2019. It comes after Chinese leadership described the bilateral ties as an “everlasting friendship.” By choosing Pyongyang for his first international travel of 2026, Xi emphasizes the strategic importance of the relationship between the two neighboring countries. The visit is expected to focus on strengthening these ties, with the delegation scheduled to remain in the capital for two days of engagement.
Quick Facts: The 2026 Visit
- Date of Arrival: Monday, June 8, 2026
- Duration: Two days
- Key Chinese Delegates: Cai Qi (top aide) and Wang Yi (Foreign Minister)
- Primary Venue: Kim Il-sung Square, Pyongyang
- Last Visit: 2019
The visit remains a focal point for regional observers as both nations look to solidify their political and diplomatic alignment. Future updates will depend on the outcomes of meetings held between the two delegations during the remainder of the two-day stay.