Story thread · 2 reports / 1 sources

[Key Points] North Korea’s overseas labor network generates up to $800M despite sanctions

koreaherald.com · 10h · first reportShare

Sanctions workaround: North Korea had an estimated 35,600–101,280 workers in at least 17 countries in 2025, generating roughly $450 million–$800 million despite UN restrictions on overseas labor. China leads hosting: China was estimated to host 20,000–70,000 North Korean workers, concentrated in border provinces and industries including garments, fisheries, electronics and IT. Russia expands role: Russia hosted about 15,000–30,000 workers by the end of 2025, with deployments spanning constructio