North Koreans "panic buying" at Pyongyang shops, sources say | NK News
NK News Logo
November 23, 2024
NK News is hiring
COVID-19

North Koreans “panic buying” at Pyongyang shops, sources say

Some sources don't connect recent surge in demand to Kim Jong Un health rumors, however

Updated at 21:29 KST and 11:30: This article was updated to reflect the fact that the shortages had been spotted at additional shops and grocery stories, as well as to make mention of a response to NK News reporting from Twitter account Coldnoodlefan.

"Panic buying" sprees have been spotted taking place in some of Pyongyang's stores and groceries since Monday, multiple informed sources told NK News, resulting in increasingly empty shelves and a growing shortage of key staples.

Become a member for less
than $5.75 per week.

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.