International passenger trains between China and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea began operating on Thursday, according to China State Railway Group.

The service between Beijing and Pyongyang, as well as between Dandong, Liaoning province, and Pyongyang, aims to increase economic and trade cooperation, as well as personnel and cultural exchanges between the two sides, the group said.

The Beijing-Pyongyang train operates in both directions every Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday, while the Dandong-Pyongyang service operates daily in both directions.

Passengers can board these trains at Beijing Station, Tianjin Station, Shanhaiguan Station, Shenyang Station, and Dandong Station in China, as well as Pyongyang Station and Sinuiju Station in the DPRK.

Immigration procedures can be handled at the Dandong and Sinuiju border ports.

Tickets for the international passenger trains are available at railway stations.

The trains are an important window for cross-border travelers and a moving link to enhance the friendship of China and the DPRK, the group said.

To ensure safe and smooth operations, railway departments in both countries have strengthened inspections of locomotives and vehicle equipment to make sure they are in good condition.

Meanwhile, relevant staff have undergone preemptive training to provide passengers with a quality cross-border travel experience.