Analysis suggests that as facilities symbolizing the friendly relationship between North Korea and China are being dismantled in China, an abnormal trend between the two countries has been confirmed. Despite the close relationship between North Korea and Russia after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, China is keeping its distance from Kim Jong-un's North Korea. Correspondent Kim Hyo-sin reported from Beijing. This is the Dandong Moon Island Beach in China. In 2018, ahead of the North Korea-US summit, Kim Jong-un, the chairman of North Korea's State Affairs Commission, visited China and showcased friendship by taking a walk with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The installed stepping stones at that time, where the footprints of the two leaders were seen, became a symbol of friendship between the two countries. When visiting Moon Island Beach, where the stepping stones of Chairman Kim and President Xi were located, the footprints are now covered with asphalt, making it impossible to trace them. Nearby restaurants and the exhibition space commemorating the visits of President Xi and Chairman Kim Jong-il have also been closed.

A subtle change in the relationship between the two countries has been revealed, which is also reflected in the North Korean embassy in China. The bulletin board photos that used to display Kim Jong-il and Kim Jong-jung have all been replaced with photos of the late Kim Il-sung. Some view China's distancing as a way to respond to certain negative views when considering international relations between North Korea and China. A diplomatic source in Beijing mentioned that China, mindful of the significant sanctions against North Korea, is reducing its economic exchanges with North Korea, leading to increased dissatisfaction from North Korea. An unusual trend in the North Korea-China relationship, as they mark the 75th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, is being detected in Beijing. This is KBS News from Beijing, I'm Kim Hyo-shin.

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