International sanctions on North Korea are continuing to fuel the state ’s push to mine cryptocurrency , despite launching only a reportedly brief foray into the area last year . As CCN reported, a report out of South Korea claimed that North Korea had stolen tens of millions of dollars worth of coins from cryptocurrency exchanges. The state 's attempt in 2017 lasted only between May and July , according to research conducted by South Korea 's government - run Korea Development Bank ( KDB).With continued international disapproval over its nuclear weapons program impacting finances , the report concluded North Korea is keen to harness bitcoin for funding due to the stability of its currency . However , the exact extent of the state ’s cryptocurrency operations are still unclear .
International sanctions on North Korea are continuing to fuel the state ’s push to mine cryptocurrency , despite launching only a reportedly brief foray into the area last year . The state 's attempt in 2017 lasted only between May and July , according to research conducted by South Korea 's government - run Korea Development Bank ( KDB).With continued international disapproval over its nuclear weapons program impacting finances , the report concluded North Korea is keen to harness bitcoin for funding due to the stability of its currency . However , the exact extent of the state ’s cryptocurrency operations are still unclear .