Crackdown on Chinese Phones: How North Korea Is Tightening Control After Recent Flood Devastation

North Korea is tightening its restrictions on Chinese cell phone usage to prevent public dissent and information leaks following severe flooding in the Amnok River region, which has caused significant loss of life and property.

A source in North Hamgyong Province informed SPN that North Korean authorities have recently stepped up their efforts to monitor and crack down on residents using Chinese cell phones. “The authorities have increased both lectures and surveillance equipment to catch those using these devices,” the source reported.

The source also noted that security forces conduct intimidating public meetings to announce harsher violation penalties. “In August alone, the North Korean Ministry of State Security held public gatherings in cities such as Hyesan, Musan, and Onsong, where they punished 2 to 3 individuals for using Chinese cell phones,” the source said.

With public dissatisfaction rising due to the recent flood damage, the National Security Agency has intensified its crackdown. The intensified crackdown on cell phones is also a measure to tighten control over the residents.”