Analysis
Latest NK PRO analysis related to the DPRK
Why North Koreans make the rational choice to accept state repression
The DPRK’s crackdown on foreign media can make ignorance the best option, but it also comes at high cost to the regime
January 25, 2022
Imports start to accumulate at North Korea’s massive new disinfection complex
High-res satellite images show trains unloading goods from China, revealing details about strict COVID-19 import scheme
January 24, 2022
Foreign envoys downbeat about North Korean border reopening in near future
Diplomats tell NK Pro that suspended embassy operations could have long-term consequences even after the pandemic ends
January 24, 2022
No god but the supreme leader: North Korea’s crusade against Christian boogeymen
The DPRK views missionaries as a threat to state ideology, which functions like a religion centered on the Kim family
January 24, 2022
Two years on: Humanitarian consequences of North Korea’s border lockdown
With the return of aid workers to the DPRK nowhere in sight, conditions for the most vulnerable are likely worsening
January 21, 2022
Small state, grand strategy: North Korea’s policy plans for 2022 and beyond
Despite an inward focus for this year, Pyongyang still eyes the big-picture goal of recognition as a nuclear state
January 21, 2022
‘Absolutely crazy’: Chaos at Chinese ports, Omicron threaten DPRK trade restart
Handful of cases can shutter entire port cities as Beijing pursues elusive zero-COVID approach
January 20, 2022
Phoning it in: Expect another year of nothing from Biden on North Korea
Dealing with Kim Jong Un is more difficult than ever, and the White House has shown little urgency on engaging Pyongyang
January 20, 2022
The North Korean studio that has animated a Christmas film and Italian cartoons
Newly sanctioned SEK Studio has worked with South Korean and European artists for decades, raising money for Pyongyang
January 19, 2022
Timeline: How North Korean propaganda dialed back focus on Kim Jong Un in 2021
More erratic messaging appears to reflect upheavals in propaganda leadership, as notable changes decline in second half
January 19, 2022
