North Korea’s foreign affairs ministry wrote on its website Tuesday that the U.S. is behind the claim that the socialist state hacked millions of dollars worth of cryptocurrency.
Fast facts
- The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) warned that it considers the act of spreading rumors about a “non-existent” cryptocurrency theft to be a serious threat and challenge to its sovereignty.
- It also alleged the U.S. has launched cyberattacks on its foes and even allies.
- U.S.-based blockchain forensics company Chainalysis released a report earlier this year saying DPRK hackers stole cryptocurrencies worth about US$395 million.
- Reuters also cited a confidential United Nations report stating North Korea has been using profits from cyberattacks on crypto exchanges to fund nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
- North Korea is believed to have administered nine ballistic missile launches in January this year.