North Korea has set up a well-organized structure for recruiting and training hackers, who then engage in cyberattacks and large-scale financial thefts around the world. According to a Reuters report, Kim Jong Un's regime rewards the most successful hackers with apartments in the capital Pyongyang, foreign currency bonuses and other privileges.
Among the operations attributed to North Korean groups is the recent attack on cryptocurrency exchange Binance, where an estimated $6.3 billion was allegedly stolen. The FBI and Binance have blamed North Korea, while Pyongyang has denied the allegations.
According to sources cited by Reuters, the recruitment program starts in high school, where about 150-200 of the most talented computer science students are selected each year. The best candidates continue their studies at elite universities and some of them end up in military cyber warfare units.
Hackers are trained in advanced technological fields, including cryptocurrency systems and computer security. Those not involved in cyber operations engage in developing programs and applications for foreign companies, working remotely and generating revenue for the regime.
In addition to financial rewards, the most successful hackers can receive apartments of up to 132 square meters in Pyongyang, trips abroad, membership in the ruling party and social privileges.
According to South Korea's National Intelligence Service, by 2024, about 8,400 people were engaged in the country's cyber operations.
However, behind these privileges lie harsh working conditions. Former tech workers and human rights organizations report 10-hour workdays, constant surveillance, strict financial targets, and intense psychological pressure.
Another worrying element is the increasing use of artificial intelligence. According to experts, North Korea-linked operatives are using AI tools for programming, document creation and identity manipulation, while the technology is also suspected of being used in operations against international companies.
Experts warn that North Korean groups are increasingly moving towards large financial targets, targeting organizations with significant cash reserves and digital assets.
The success of these operations is turning cyberwarfare into one of the main instruments of financing and power for the Kim Jong Un regime.
