North Korea’s Surveillance Expansion: The Chinese Technology Factor

North Korea's surveillance expansion raises concerns, with Chinese technology playing a significant role, prompting discussions on privacy

(C) Stimson Center

North Korea is intensifying its surveillance capabilities, leveraging Chinese-made technology to monitor its population more closely. This move is part of a broader effort to maintain strict control over the country’s citizens.

Surveillance Infrastructure

Technological Imports North Korea is reportedly purchasing surveillance cameras from China, installing them in public spaces such as schools, workplaces, and airports. These cameras range from basic video feeds to advanced models with face recognition capabilities.

Biometric Data Collection The state is also collecting fingerprints, photographs, and other biometric information from its citizens, aiming to keep a comprehensive record of the population.

The Chinese Connection

Supplying Surveillance Chinese vendors are the primary source of the surveillance cameras, which are becoming increasingly common across North Korea.

Challenges and Limitations

Infrastructure Hurdles Despite these efforts, North Korea faces challenges such as unreliable electricity and limited network connectivity, which hinder the full implementation of digital surveillance.

Human Spying Tradition North Korea has a long history of relying on human informants to spy on its citizens, suggesting that digital surveillance isn’t yet as pervasive as in China.

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The Pandemic’s Role

Border Control The COVID-19 pandemic saw North Korea impose stringent border controls, which have been maintained to some extent even after a cautious reopening in 2023. This period likely accelerated the adoption of surveillance technologies.

Crackdown on Foreign Influence New laws and reports of harsher punishments suggest a government crackdown on foreign influence and media, likely aided by the new surveillance infrastructure.

An Orwellian Reality North Korea’s use of Chinese-made surveillance technology is part of a larger agenda to tighten state control and promote loyalty to Kim Jong-un’s regime. While the country grapples with technological limitations, the direction is clear: more surveillance, less privacy.