G7 calls for a global response to crypto threats from the DPRK
At the summit in Évian, leaders of the G7 countries adopted a joint statement emphasizing the need for coordinated action against cryptocurrency theft and cyberattacks originating from North Korea. The document also expressed deep concern over Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs, but no specific measures targeting the crypto sector were proposed.
This step reflects a growing awareness that digital assets have become a key tool for Kim Jong Un's regime to circumvent international sanctions. Cryptocurrency thefts organized by North Korean groups, such as the Lazarus Group, have long gone beyond simple financial fraud—they serve as a direct source of funding for military programs.
According to the latest data from the analytical platform Chainalysis, in 2025, hackers linked to North Korea stole crypto assets worth $2.02 billion. This is a 51% increase compared to the previous year. The total volume of funds stolen by them since tracking began is estimated at least $6.75 billion.
Notably, the growth rate of thefts is accelerating: while the amount of thefts in 2023 was about $1.34 billion, by 2025 it had increased by one and a half times. This indicates not only the enhanced technical capabilities of the hackers but also the insufficient effectiveness of current protective measures in the crypto industry.
In my view, the absence of specific solutions in the G7 final document regarding the regulation of cryptocurrency turnover is a worrying signal. While politicians limit themselves to declarations, North Korean groups continue to refine their methods, and the volume of stolen funds is growing exponentially. Without the implementation of mandatory KYC/AML standards for decentralized platforms and the strengthening of international intelligence sharing on suspicious transactions, the situation will only worsen.