Analysis
Latest NK PRO analysis related to the DPRK
What North Korean media accidentally revealed about Pyongyang’s secret lockdown
State media did not report on recent emergency measures in capital, but photos help confirm what went unacknowledged
February 28, 2023
North Korea overhauls laws on drug use, private wealth and rape
Legal changes outline new crimes and punishment but promote leniency for even worst offenders who repent
February 27, 2023
How North Korean state firms bend the rules to rake in cash from market activity
Newly revealed DPRK law details crackdown on use of special privileges to dodge taxes, embezzle funds and more
February 24, 2023
Shinzo Abe’s posthumous memoir sheds light on North Korea diplomacy and Trump
Former Japanese prime minister explains why Trump sought summit with DPRK, criticizes ‘criminal’ Moon Jae-in and more
February 22, 2023
Why it may not matter if North Korea’s missiles can survive atmospheric reentry
Some doubt DPRK reentry vehicles would work as intended, but nuclear deterrence can be effective despite uncertainties
February 22, 2023
The Ukraine war has drawn North Korea back into Moscow’s political orbit
Pyongyang has offered vocal and material support for Russia’s invasion and stands to gain as conflict enters second year
February 22, 2023
What Kim Yo Jong’s missives say about North Korean priorities and sensitivities
DPRK leader’s sister has repeatedly insulted South Korean experts, but it’s far from clear what she seeks to achieve
February 21, 2023
Large construction camp pops up near Pyongyang’s foreign leader guesthouses
Workers made camp in same exclusive area to build luxurious palace for Chinese leader Xi Jinping ahead of state visit
February 21, 2023
Power politics: What light levels reveal about North Korea’s priorities
Satellites detect spikes in radiance of Pyongyang around nighttime parades and could help gauge DPRK’s economic activity
February 21, 2023
North Korea’s latest ICBM launch signals new phase of long-range missile drills
Military reportedly launched Hwasong-15 on short notice, as DPRK shifts focus from development to operational exercises
February 20, 2023
