North Korea's Growing Digital Surveillance Threatens Privacy and Freedom, Report Reveals

North Korea intensifies digital surveillance, using Chinese technology to monitor citizens, restrict private activities, and promote loyalty to Kim Jong Un.

North Korea is intensifying its use of digital surveillance tools, implementing an extensive network of surveillance cameras in schools and workplaces as well as collecting biometric information from its citizens, according to a recent report.

Combining Imported Equipment with Domestically Developed Software

The state is importing equipment from China and combining it with domestically developed software to bolster its digital surveillance capabilities. This approach is posing a threat to the limited private spaces that North Koreans have for engaging in business activities, accessing foreign media, and dissenting against the government.

Challenges and Limitations

Despite its technological ambitions, North Korea faces challenges such as poor electricity supplies and low network connectivity. Additionally, the nation has historically relied on traditional methods of surveillance, setting it apart from the pervasive digital surveillance seen in China. These observations are detailed in a report published by the North Korea-focused website 38 North.

Government's Tightened Control and Promotion of Loyalty

Recent developments indicate that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is actively increasing efforts to tighten the state's control over its citizens and foster loyalty to his regime. The COVID-19 pandemic presented an opportunity for the government to impose stringent border controls, which were upheld for three years before a cautious reopening in 2023.

Crackdown on Foreign Influence and Media

New laws and reports of harsher punishments suggest a crackdown on foreign influence and imported media. The installation of fences and electronic monitoring systems along the border with China during the pandemic likely facilitated these measures.

Rise of Surveillance Equipment

Analysts attribute the rise of surveillance equipment to the decreasing cost of such technologies. North Korean state media reports highlight the increasing prevalence of video surveillance in schools, workplaces, and airports. Additionally, the country has expanded its network of traffic cameras beyond the capital city since 2021.

Biometric Profiles and Increased Surveillance

North Korea is also building detailed biometric profiles of its citizens. The latest national identification cards require fingerprints, facial photographs, and potentially even blood tests. This development translates to heightened surveillance, especially if automatic detection systems are integrated into the surveillance infrastructure.

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