Over $14 Billion from Russia: How the Ukraine War Enriched North Korea

The North Korean regime now possesses resources it previously lacked. Since the onset of the Ukrainian war, North Korea's foreign currency inflows have increased sixfold; they were $1.4 billion in 2021 and reached $8.38 billion last year. According to Bloomberg Economics, Kim Jong-un's revenues have amounted to $22 billion since 2022, nearly quadrupling the figures from the previous four years.

The primary source of enrichment has been arms sales and support provided to Russia. Over four years, Moscow has transferred $14.02 billion to Kim, which includes $849 million for sending 10,000 to 12,000 military personnel. Of these soldiers, more than 2,300 have reportedly died in the Kursk region. In addition to manpower, Pyongyang has supplied Russia with 5 to 6 million artillery shells, surpassing decades of production from all NATO countries, as well as over 150 ballistic missiles.

Experts assess that with the start of arms supplies to Russia, North Korea appears to have 'hit the jackpot.' Against the backdrop of renewed support from China, Pyongyang is currently in its strongest economic and political position in the last 35 years.