North Korea Crypto Holdings Surpasses Other Countries
North Korea has emerged as one of the largest state Bitcoin holders, amassing 13,518 BTC worth approximately $1.14 billion, alongside significant holdings of Ethereum and Binance Coin. This crypto empire, primarily built through cyberattacks executed by the Lazarus Group, highlights the strategic use of digital assets to bypass sanctions and enhance state reserves. The latest Bybit hack alone netted over 400,000 Ether, later converted to Bitcoin, placing North Korea ahead of countries like Bhutan and El Salvador. As the global community grapples with the implications, concerns arise over the convergence of cybercrime and state strategy.
2025-03-18Read
