A remarkable railway journey spanning continents has officially become the world's longest direct train route, connecting the Russian capital with one of the planet's most isolated nations.
The Record-Breaking Route
Since June 2025, direct passenger trains have been operating between Moscow and Pyongyang, covering an astonishing distance of 6,213 miles. This extraordinary journey takes approximately eight days to complete and has been officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the longest direct train journey on Earth.
The route primarily utilises Russia's famous Trans-Siberian Railway, which itself holds the title of the world's longest single railway track at 9,288 kilometres. Passengers travelling to North Korea experience a unique arrangement where a specially designated carriage is attached to the regular Trans-Siberian service. Upon reaching Vladivostok, this carriage is then transferred to another train for the final leg into Pyongyang.
A Journey Into Isolation
This rail connection represents more than just a transportation link—it bridges Russia with what many consider one of the world's most secretive and dangerous countries. Under Kim Jong-un's leadership, North Korea maintains strict control over its population, with reports of severe punishments including execution for minor offences such as watching foreign television.
The service had previously operated infrequently before being completely suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. Its resumption coincides with efforts to strengthen ties between North Korea and Russia, including controversial military cooperation in Ukraine.
Life On Board The North Korean Carriage
Very few Western travellers have experienced the complete journey from Moscow to Pyongyang. Those who documented their trip in 2018 revealed challenging conditions aboard the dedicated North Korean carriage.
According to their accounts, the carriage showed signs of poor maintenance with temperatures dropping to approximately 10 degrees Celsius inside compartments due to inadequate heating. "If it's cold outside this period, the cars are individually heated with a coal stove, which is located in every car," the travellers explained, noting that their carriage lacked coal for heating.
Despite the chilly conditions, basic amenities remained functional. "The water-boiler was working, so preparing tea, coffee and instant-noodles was possible," they reported, highlighting the practical aspects of surviving the lengthy journey.
The destination itself presents even greater challenges for visitors. North Korea's reputation for human rights abuses is well-documented, with the United Nations reporting that over 40% of the population suffers from undernourishment while the government prioritises food distribution to military and elite groups.
Communication is strictly monitored, and thousands of citizens remain detained in political prison camps for offences that include attempting to leave the country or practising religion.
