North Korea News

In a highly sophisticated cyberattack, North Korea's Lazarus Group reportedly stole $1.5 billion in Ethereum from the cryptocurrency exchange Bybit, marking one of the largest heists in history. The incident unfolded swiftly after Bybit CEO Ben Zhou conducted routine transfers on February 21, 2025, only to discover later that the funds had been redirected to numerous digital wallets, according to reports by The New York Times and the FBI. The FBI confirmed that Lazarus executed the operation through a supply chain attack on Safe{Wallet}, the provider for Bybit’s cold wallet—traditionally viewed as secure due to its offline status. Analysts have highlighted the meticulous planning and execution of this attack, showcasing Lazarus's expertise in cybercrime (Hervé Lambert, Panda Security). Following the heist, Bybit customers withdrew around $10 billion in cryptocurrency, causing a 20% drop in Bitcoin’s value, the largest since the collapse of FTX in 2022. This hack exposes the growing threat posed by state-sponsored cybercriminals as cryptocurrencies become increasingly vulnerable.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un recently oversaw tests of advanced suicide drones equipped with artificial intelligence, emphasizing unmanned technology as a crucial aspect of modern military development. According to the state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim highlighted the need for unmanned aircraft and AI to be prioritized in the country's weapons modernization efforts. During the inspection, Kim examined upgraded reconnaissance drones capable of detecting various targets and enemy activities both on land and at sea. The tests are seen as part of North Korea's broader initiative to advance its drone capabilities, including the development of kamikaze munitions, amidst increasing military cooperation with Russia. The KCNA report noted Kim's commitment to fostering a long-term national program aimed at excelling in the competition for intelligent unmanned aerial vehicles for military applications. This push occurs as North Korean troops reportedly gain battlefield experience through participation in Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine, signaling a significant shift in the region's military dynamics.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has overseen the testing of new suicide drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI), emphasizing the importance of unmanned control and AI in modern military advancements. According to the KCNA state news agency, Kim inspected upgraded reconnaissance drones capable of identifying tactical targets and tracking enemy activities both on land and at sea during an event reported on March 27, 2025. Kim asserted that the development of unmanned equipment and AI technologies should be prioritized in the nation’s weapons modernization efforts. He called for a long-term national program aimed at leading the global competition in intelligent unmanned aerial vehicles for military use. This development comes amidst an increased focus on drone technology, including kamikaze munitions, as North Korea strengthens military collaboration with Russia. North Korean troops have reportedly gained significant drone warfare experience through their involvement in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un supervised tests of newly developed suicide drones featuring artificial intelligence technology, according to the state-run KCNA news agency on March 27, 2025. Kim emphasized that unmanned control and AI capabilities must be prioritized in the modernization of North Korea's military arsenal. During the inspection, Kim also reviewed upgraded reconnaissance drones capable of identifying tactical targets and enemy activities on both land and sea. "He stressed the importance of promoting a concerted, longer-term national program to lead in the competition of intelligent unmanned aerial vehicles for military purposes," KCNA reported. This initiative is seen as part of North Korea's broader effort to enhance its drone capabilities, including kamikaze munitions, amid increasing military cooperation with Russia. Reports indicate that North Korean troops are gaining battlefield experience in drone warfare, particularly in the context of Russia's ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The development of advanced unmanned systems suggests a significant shift in North Korea's military strategy and capabilities.

North Korea launched multiple unidentified ballistic missiles on March 10, 2025, coinciding with the start of the joint military exercise "Freedom Shield" involving the United States and South Korea. The drills, described as defensive, have been condemned by Pyongyang as a "provocative act" that risks igniting conflict. South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff reported the launch, noting that the missiles were fired from Hwanghae province into the West Sea, also known as the Yellow Sea. The ongoing military drills run until March 20 and involve various types of training, including live exercises. Tensions have escalated on the Korean Peninsula, particularly after a recent incident in which South Korean fighter jets accidentally dropped bombs during a separate drill, injuring 31 people. Analysts suggest the significant military activities underscore the frosty relations between the two Koreas, which remain technically in a state of war since their conflict ended in an armistice rather than a peace treaty. North Korea continues to react to US military presence in the region with missile tests, further complicating diplomatic efforts.

North Korean hackers have successfully cashed out at least $300 million from a record-breaking $1.5 billion heist involving the ByBit crypto exchange, according to the FBI and crypto investigator Elliptic. The cybercriminals, suspected to be affiliated with North Korea’s Lazarus Group, gained access to ByBit’s systems by compromising a supplier’s digital wallet on February 21, redirecting a transfer of 401,000 Ethereum coins to an address they controlled. Elliptic's study revealed that approximately 20% of the stolen assets are likely "gone dark" and unrecoverable. Dr. Tom Robinson, Elliptic's co-founder, noted the urgency for hackers to obfuscate their transactions, underscoring their sophistication. ByBit's CEO, Ben Zhou, reassured clients that their funds are secure, as the company used investor loans to refund the stolen amounts. The theft’s proceeds are believed to potentially fund North Korea's ballistic missile and nuclear programs, with experts highlighting the regime's adeptness in cybercrime. Dr. Dorit Dor from Check Point emphasized North Korea's creation of a criminal industry out of hacking.

North Korean state-backed hackers have stolen approximately $1.5 billion in cryptocurrency, marking the largest theft in crypto history, according to Chainalysis. The cyber attackers infiltrated the systems of Dubai-based exchange Bybit to steal Ether, eclipsing previous records set by criminals in 2024, who stole around $1.3 billion. Security experts believe the notorious Lazarus Group, linked to North Korea’s intelligence agency, executed the latest heist. This attack demonstrates the advanced tactics employed by North Korean hackers, which include hacking and social engineering to deceive targeted employees into revealing sensitive information, Chainalysis noted. The funds stolen in this single incident exceed the total of the largest bank theft ever, when Saddam Hussein took $1 billion from the Iraqi central bank in 2003. Analysts highlight that North Korea's cyber operations are increasingly leveraging sophisticated hacking techniques as a means of funding its economy, which is heavily sanctioned globally. As of now, Bybit assured it possesses sufficient assets to cover its losses, labeling the incident an “isolated incident.”

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un triggered a massive explosion during a groundbreaking ceremony for a large housing project in Pyongyang's Hwasong suburb, state media reported on Sunday. The event marked the start of a five-year plan aimed at constructing 50,000 new apartments, with an initial phase involving the construction of 10,000 flats. Footage showed Mr. Kim addressing a crowd of construction workers organized into colorful sections before activating the explosives, which created towering clouds of dust and smoke. According to the Korean Central News Agency, Mr. Kim claimed the Hwasong area would be transformed into a symbol of "a happy and civilized life" in North Korea. On the same day, Mr. Kim also commemorated the birthday of his father, Kim Jong Il, by visiting the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, which houses the embalmed remains of both his father and grandfather. He vowed to continue the "sacred struggle" for the nation's prosperity and security, amidst ongoing challenges facing the country. The event underscored the regime's focus on construction and development as a means of showcasing progress.

North Korea's remote city of Rason is set to welcome international visitors for the first time since January 2020, with a special tour organized by Koryo Tours from February 12 to 18, 2025. The five-day itinerary offers a glimpse into this Special Economic Zone, the only region in North Korea where capitalism is actively encouraged. Tourists will engage in activities such as seal watching, a cooking course, and visits to a school uniform factory and a health facility for chronic gastritis. Rason, located near the borders with Russia and China, stands out for its limited embrace of private enterprise, allowing locals to buy property in a nation where homeownership is typically illegal. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) warns potential travelers of the risks involved, noting the country's unpredictable security conditions and the potential for arrest over minor infractions. Additionally, it advises against all but essential travel to North Korea, emphasizing the alarming human rights situation. The tour is priced at approximately €705 (about $760) per person, excluding flights from major cities to Yanji, China.

North Korean soldiers deployed to Russia are showcasing notable combat capabilities in their engagements against Ukrainian forces, according to various reports. Following a November deployment of approximately 11,000 troops, which included elite special operations forces, these soldiers are described as "highly motivated" and "well-trained" by Ukrainian and South Korean intelligence sources. The troops, primarily from North Korea's 11th Corps, are reportedly gaining exposure to modern warfare tactics, including drone countermeasures and urban combat. Experts noted that the harsh conditions of the conflict have forced these soldiers to adapt rapidly, enhancing their operational skills despite suffering heavy casualties. The Pentagon has characterized these North Korean forces as "capable," asserting that they are being utilized in high-risk assaults by Russian military leaders. While North Korea refutes claims of their forces' involvement, Western assessments suggest that their participation marks Pyongyang's largest military engagement abroad in nearly eight decades, raising concerns over increasing military cooperation between North Korea and Russia.

North Korean troops deployed to assist Russia in its war against Ukraine have demonstrated significant combat capabilities, prompting new insights into their military effectiveness. Pyongyang has reportedly sent approximately 11,000 soldiers, mainly from the elite 11th Corps, to participate in operations, often disguised as Russian forces, according to Business Insider. These troops have engaged in high-casualty assaults, reflecting a brutal and outdated approach to warfare. Nevertheless, experts note that their involvement in the conflict represents a crucial learning opportunity for North Korea, particularly in modern tactics like drone countermeasures. Ukrainian General Oleksandr Syrsky praised the North Koreans as "highly motivated" and "well-trained" despite suffering severe losses. Western intelligence suggests that North Korean soldiers are becoming adept at survival in an unfamiliar mechanized combat environment, generally characterized by rapid, aggressive attacks. The Pentagon has also acknowledged the effectiveness of these forces, labeling them "competent." Despite the high casualty rate, assessments indicate that North Korea views the learning experience as vital for enhancing its military capabilities in future conflicts.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for strengthening the country's nuclear forces, emphasizing the need to enhance military readiness in light of evolving geopolitical challenges. According to state media reports, during a recent meeting of the Workers' Party, Kim underscored the importance of developing and expanding nuclear capabilities to ensure national security. The North Korean leader's remarks come amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, exacerbated by joint military drills conducted by the United States and South Korea. Kim's comments reflect an ongoing commitment to advance North Korea's military strategy, which he argues is essential to deter perceived threats from the U.S. and its allies. Experts warn that such rhetoric could lead to further destabilization in the region, raising concerns about potential arms escalation. The international community continues to monitor North Korea's military activities closely, as negotiations for denuclearization remain stalled.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has urged the need to bolster the nation's nuclear capabilities to counter perceived threats from hostile forces, according to state media reports. During a recent meeting with military officials, Kim emphasized the importance of strengthening both nuclear deterrence and readiness for potential conflicts. This announcement comes amid escalating tensions on the Korean Peninsula, particularly following increased military activities from neighboring South Korea and ongoing joint exercises with the United States. Analysts have noted that North Korea's nuclear ambitions continue to worry regional neighbors and global powers. The United States and its allies have condemned North Korea's missile tests and nuclear advancements, viewing them as violations of international norms. Despite international sanctions aimed at curbing its nuclear program, North Korea has consistently reiterated its commitment to maintaining and developing its arsenal as a means of national defense. The rise in rhetoric surrounding nuclear power indicates a continuation of the entrenched military posture of the North Korean regime, and it raises concerns about future diplomatic negotiations and regional stability.

In a recent statement, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un called for the bolstering of the country's nuclear capabilities amid rising tensions on the Korean Peninsula. According to state media reports, Kim emphasized the need for an “ironclad” nuclear deterrent to safeguard national security. This announcement follows a series of missile tests conducted by North Korea, which the global community has condemned as provocative actions. Kim's remarks come as the United States and South Korea maintain a strong military presence in the region, further heightening security concerns for North Korea. Experts suggest that these developments could lead to escalated military drills by both sides, increasing the risk of conflict. Kim also highlighted the importance of improving domestic production of key components related to missile technology. The international community remains watchful of North Korea's actions, which could impede ongoing diplomatic efforts to denuclearize the Korean Peninsula and bring stability to the region.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for the enhancement of the country's nuclear capabilities during a recent military meeting. Emphasizing the need for improved military readiness, Kim highlighted the importance of bolstering nuclear deterrents as tensions remain high in the region. The announcement comes amid ongoing international scrutiny of North Korea's military ambitions, including its missile programs. Analysts suggest that these remarks reflect the regime's strategy to assert power and project strength domestically and abroad.

Recent intelligence reports suggest that nearly 1,000 North Korean soldiers have been killed while fighting in Russia's Kursk region as part of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Western officials disclosed to the BBC that out of approximately 11,000 troops sent from North Korea, around 4,000 have sustained casualties, with the term encompassing those killed, wounded, missing, or captured. These losses represent a staggering nearly 40% casualty rate for North Korean forces in just three months. The figures highlight the unsustainable nature of such heavy losses for North Korea, with about 1,000 fatalities confirmed as of mid-January. The North Korean troops, reportedly from an elite division known as the Storm Corps, seem to have been deployed with insufficient training and military support. Observers note that they are often led by Russian officers under whom they lack familiarity and comprehension. Experts suggest that these soldiers are ill-equipped for the challenges of modern warfare, particularly against advanced Ukrainian tactics such as the use of First-Person-View drones. Despite their casualties, Ukraine’s military leadership acknowledges that the North Korean presence poses significant challenges on the battlefield. General Oleksandr Syrskyi has stated that these additional forces, employing traditional Soviet tactics, complicate the conflict for Ukrainian fighters, as they are motivated and numerous. Overall, the rising toll on North Korean troops signals significant implications for both their military strategy and the broader dynamics of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

North Korea has announced the successful launch of a new hypersonic missile, marking a significant development in its military capabilities. According to state media, the missile was tested under the supervision of Kim Jong-un, who claimed it serves to counter security threats from hostile forces in the Pacific region. The reported test took place on January 6, 2025, from near Pyongyang and showcased the missile hitting a simulated target in the sea after covering a distance of 1,500 kilometers at speeds reaching 12 times the speed of sound. However, South Korean military officials expressed skepticism about the North Korean claims, suggesting that the missile's actual flight range was approximately 1,100 kilometers, which aligns with their analysis. This missile test comes at a time of political turmoil in South Korea and shortly before the inauguration of Donald Trump as U.S. President, who previously engaged with Kim in attempts to resolve tensions in the Korean Peninsula. Kim Jong-un highlighted the importance of hypersonic missiles as part of North Korea’s nuclear deterrent strategy, stating they would deter any rivals attempting to threaten the nation's security. Some experts believe this new missile may be an enhanced version of a previous model, potentially benefiting from technological assistance from Russia amidst growing ties between the two nations.

North Korea announced the successful launch of a new intermediate-range ballistic missile equipped with a hypersonic warhead, which the regime asserts will provide a reliable means to "contain" rivals in the Pacific region. This missile was reportedly fired on Monday, marking Pyongyang's first launch in two months, coinciding with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken's visit to Seoul for discussions with South Korean leaders. According to North Korean officials, the missile achieved speeds of 12 times that of sound over a distance of approximately 1,500 kilometers. However, South Korea's military reported that the missile flew only 1,100 kilometers before crashing into the sea, condemning the test as a provocative act. North Korea claimed this missile features a new flight and guidance control system, as well as an engine made from carbon fiber. Leader Kim Jong Un emphasized that the launch demonstrated North Korea's readiness to utilize any means necessary to defend its interests. Analysts noted that the use of advanced materials could enhance missile performance and reliability. While hypersonic weapons have been in development for decades, recent iterations exhibit greater agility and evasiveness. Military experts suggest that technological advancements may exist that allow for the interception of such missiles, particularly during their descent phase. During his visit, Blinken expressed concerns that Russia may be preparing to share advanced military technologies with North Korea, potentially undermining longstanding commitments to denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula. In the context of these missile tests, South Korea has intensified surveillance efforts and is collaborating closely with the U.S. and Japan to monitor North Korean activities.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has announced a commitment to implement the "toughest" anti-U.S. policy as tensions rise with the upcoming inauguration of Donald Trump as President of the United States. During a recent meeting of the Central Committee of the Workers’ Party of Korea, Kim criticized military cooperation among South Korea, the U.S., and Japan, labeling it an aggressive nuclear military bloc. Kim described the United States as "the most reactionary state" and emphasized the need for North Korea to enhance its military capabilities in preparation for modern warfare dynamics. He underscored the necessity for "accelerated progress" in defense science and technology to bolster national security. The declaration comes as speculation grows regarding potential future diplomatic engagements between North Korea and the U.S. Trump’s previous term was marked by three summits with Kim, aimed at reducing nuclear tensions, but those efforts ultimately collapsed in 2019. Experts express doubt about an immediate resumption of diplomacy, as Trump is likely to prioritize global conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Since the breakdown of talks, North Korea has significantly intensified its weapons testing, further complicating relations with Washington and its allies. The U.S. and South Korea have responded by amplifying their military exercises, which North Korea perceives as threats to its sovereignty.