North Korea coronavirus

Pyongyang cited concerns over COVID-19 for its decision. Its absence from the Games further dims hope of a diplomatic breakthrough.

North Korea insists there have been no coronavirus cases in the country. So why does it keep tightening restrictions, despite the heavy cost?

Kim Jong Un is grappling with the toughest challenges of his nine-year rule as he prepares to host the ruling Workers’ Party congress in January.

North Korea continues to be hypersensitive about its handling of the pandemic.

As COVID-19 continues to hamstring the economy, North Koreans grow increasingly desperate – and the government moves to keep everything under tight control.

Apparently North Korea’s commitment to fighting COVID-19 – which saw a South Korean official killed in early October – has its limits.

North Korea still hasn’t confirmed a single COVID case, but remains on alert, refusing to accept foreign aid due to fears of infection.

As North Korea doubles down on COVID-19 containment measures, local sources report several outbreaks.

If confirmed, it would be the country’s first official case – and Pyongyang is already gearing up to blame Seoul.

Amid the COVID-induced shutdown of the border, hunger, homelessness, and business closures are all on the rise.

Amid stalled diplomacy and a global pandemic, North Korea is signalling major adjustments in its economic policies and management practices.