Yalu River's unending flow
Decades after war scarred its banks, the waterway remains a living conduit of blood-forged camaraderie and the quiet, everyday friendships bridging China, DPRK
During this intense conflict, Dandong emerged as a vital rear base, said Zhang Xiaoying, deputy director of the memorial hall.
"The city then became a crucial lifeline, offering unwavering support to the front lines. Residents and resources were mobilized to provide whatever was needed — be it manpower, supplies or even blood — demonstrating remarkable dedication and sacrifice," she said.
"This collective effort played a pivotal role in securing victory, marking the city's extraordinary contributions."
The Yalu River Bridge (China-DPRK Friendship Bridge) and the Yalu River Broken Bridge span the river, both of which served as crucial transport routes for supplies during wartime.
"The Broken Bridge, originally the first road bridge across the Yalu River, witnessed the ravages of conflict when the US Air Force destroyed the DPRK's side in the 1950s," Zhang said. "Meanwhile, the Yalu River Bridge, initially constructed as a railway bridge, was converted into a combined road-rail bridge to meet wartime demands."
Although the bridge was repeatedly bombed, the steadfast people of Dandong continuously repaired it, ensuring its role as a lifeline for the war effort, she said.
