North Korea’s foreign ministry on Sunday pushed back against accusations from the United States that it poses a cyber threat, describing the claims as fabricated and politically motivated.
According to state media KCNA, Pyongyang argued that the allegations are part of Washington’s longstanding hostile approach toward the country.
A spokesperson for the ministry stated that the United States is promoting false narratives about a “non-existent ‘cyber threat'” from North Korea, insisting the accusations are being used for political ends. The spokesperson further described the claims as “nothing but an absurd slander to tarnish the image of our country.”
KCNA also reported that the official warned Pyongyang would take decisive action to safeguard national interests and ensure the protection of its citizens’ rights in cyberspace.
U.S. authorities, however, have consistently accused North Korea of engaging in state-backed cyber operations, including hacking activities, cryptocurrency theft, and the use of overseas IT worker networks to generate funds for its weapons programs.
In March, the U.S. Treasury imposed sanctions on six individuals and two organizations allegedly connected to North Korean IT worker schemes, stating they were involved in channeling illicit proceeds through digital currencies. Officials added that such operations are still ongoing.
Earlier, in July, both the Treasury and State Department announced additional sanctions targeting North Korean cyber operatives and their foreign collaborators. They alleged that Pyongyang dispatches thousands of IT workers abroad and relies on cyber-enabled theft to support its missile and nuclear ambitions.
Meanwhile, the U.S. Justice Department and the FBI have continued to caution that North Korean-linked cyber groups remain an active threat to governments, businesses, and critical infrastructure around the world.
