NHK has learned that China's new ambassador to North Korea has headed to the country. Sources say he may be the first foreign diplomat to be allowed into the country since Pyongyang tightened border controls due to the coronavirus pandemic.

An NHK crew confirmed on Monday that Wang Yajun crossed a bridge at the Chinese border city of Dandong into Sinuiju on the North Korean side by car.

Wang has served as a deputy head of the Chinese Communist Party's International Department.

He was part of the Chinese delegation that met with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un during a visit to the country in 2018.

North Korea's state-run media reported in December 2021 that Chinese Ambassador Li Jinjun would leave after serving in the post for six years and nine months.

But Li's successor was unable to go to North Korea due to the pandemic.

Sources say Beijing asked Pyongyang to allow Wang to start working in the country as soon as possible.

North Korea is believed to be hoping to deepen ties with its biggest supporter, China, as Pyongyang finds itself increasingly at odds with the United States.