Economy
Information related to the North Korea economic sector
North Korea in August 2022: A month in review and what’s ahead
An analytical look at the main developments from August 1, 2022 to August 31, 2022
North Korea updates foreign trade law in apparent attempt to control money flows
Introduction of new rules for second time during pandemic suggests lockdown led to more restrictive business environment
South Korea to cut unification ministry budget for first time in five years
Drop in funding for ministry overseeing North Korea due to broader austerity push and fewer defector arrivals
Friends without benefits: How a new US law penalizes South Korean carmakers
Inflation Reduction Act casts doubt over Washington’s commitment to multilateralism and economic security of its allies
New smartphones appear in North Koreans’ hands for first time in years
Models with more advanced cameras likely imported from China despite sanctions in effort to appeal to consumers
The limits to tyranny: Why Kim Jong Un doesn’t actually have absolute power
A range of factors constrain the North Korean leader in practice, despite his supreme authority in principle
What a Trump comeback would mean for South Korea’s reset with the US
Reelection of former president hostile toward Seoul could throw allies’ ties into chaos, experts say
COVID outbreak at Russian border looms over North Korea trade plans
Virus surge in Vladivostok may disrupt plans to open import disinfection center, amid activity at DPRK border facility
New photos show scant activity at delayed Pyongyang General Hospital project
Fewer people visible at worksite than in past, though exclusive images confirm exterior appears complete
Rumors swirl that North Korea preparing to allow people to enter country
Six informed sources tell NK News they’ve heard of changes to border controls, though some aid workers remain skeptical
