North Korea is currently facing a significant internet outage, according to UK-based researcher Junade Ali. The researcher noted that the problem appears to be more likely internal rather than the result of a cyberattack. On Saturday morning, several major North Korean news websites, including those of the Foreign Ministry, were reported down.
Ali indicated that the entire North Korean internet is currently not visible on monitoring systems, which typically track internet activity. “It’s hard to say if this is intentional or accidental, but it seems like this is an internal issue,” Ali was quoted as saying.
In related news, North Korea has successfully launched a warship that had previously experienced a failed attempt due to damage. State media KCNA announced that the damaged 5,000-tonne destroyer was launched on Thursday after undergoing repairs and restoration at Rajin Dockyard, where further examinations will take place over the next week.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had criticized the unsuccessful launch as a result of “carelessness” that negatively impacted the nation’s dignity, insisting on the ship’s restoration ahead of an important ruling party meeting.
Additionally, on a different note concerning cross-border movement, four North Koreans were discovered in a wooden boat that drifted into South Korean waters last month. They were found about 100 kilometers east of South Korea’s Gangwon province and have since been transferred to South Korean authorities for screening.
This combination of events highlights the continuing tension and complexities in North Korea’s internal and external affairs. The internet outage may reflect deeper issues within the regime while the successful warship launch showcases ongoing military efforts despite setbacks. The situation with the defectors also underscores the ongoing humanitarian concerns and risks faced by individuals in North Korea.
Overall, while challenges persist for North Korea, these events may also signify moments of reflection and change as the regime navigates its path forward.