North Korea closes dozens of embassies worldwide amid economic challenges. In a significant move reflecting the economic pressures faced by North Korea due to international sanctions, the isolated nation has initiated the closure of approximately twelve embassies across the globe.
Notable closures include diplomatic missions in Spain, Hong Kong, and several African countries. Reports and analysts suggest that nearly a quarter of North Korea’s global diplomatic network could be affected by this decision.
The closures, seen as a consequence of North Korea’s struggle to generate income abroad, have raised concerns about the nation’s ability to sustain diplomatic engagement, humanitarian efforts, and revenue generation through illicit means.
South Korea’s unification ministry has attributed this withdrawal to the impact of international sanctions, aimed at cutting off funding for North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs.
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North Korean ambassadors have recently conducted “farewell” visits to leaders in Angola and Uganda, both of which have maintained friendly relations with North Korea since the 1970s.
The closure of embassies in these African countries signifies a potential shift in North Korea’s foreign policy dynamics.
The shutdown is expected to impact ongoing military cooperation and projects, including statue-building initiatives, which provided foreign currency to the nation.
Chad O’Carroll, the founder of NK Pro, a North Korea-focused website, highlighted the challenges posed by international sanctions, North Korea’s disengagement on the global stage, and the nation’s economic weakening as key factors contributing to the closure of diplomatic missions.
According to the South Korean unification ministry, North Korea currently has formal relations with 159 countries, but had 53 diplomatic missions overseas, including three consulates and three representative offices, until the recent closures.
Notably, North Korea’s embassy in Madrid, Spain, is also expected to close, with its affairs being handled by its mission in Italy.
The Madrid embassy had previously made headlines in 2019 when a group seeking the overthrow of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un staged a break-in, resulting in stolen computers and devices.
Pyongyang condemned the incident as a “grave breach of sovereignty and a terrorist attack,” blaming the United States for insufficiently investigating the group and refusing to extradite its leader.
As North Korea closes dozens of embassies worldwide amid economic challenges, the closure of these embassies marks a crucial development in North Korea’s international relations, underscoring the nation’s challenging economic situation and its impact on diplomatic ties with traditionally friendly nations.
As the global community observes these changes, concerns about North Korea’s future engagements and its ability to navigate the complexities of international relations continue to grow.
