North Korea’s foreign ministry has formally denied allegations of involvement in global cybercrime and cryptocurrency theft. The regime accused the United States of spreading false claims to justify hostile policies. This statement follows data showing North Korean-linked actors were responsible for the majority of crypto hack losses in early 2026, despite a lower number of individual incidents.
North Korea has rejected allegations of cyber theft, accusing the United States of fabricating claims to damage its image. A Foreign Ministry spokesperson called the accusations unfounded and politically motivated in a statement published by state media.
The spokesperson described “reptile media organs” as spreading incorrect information linking the country to global cyber fraud. They argued the U.S. narrative paints it as the biggest victim while itself conducting indiscriminate cyber attacks.
“It is our consistent policy stand to protect cyberspace, the common wealth of mankind, from all sorts of malicious acts and thoroughly reject any sinister attempt to use the cyber issue as a political tool for violating sovereignty and interfering in internal affairs of others,” the statement said. The spokesperson warned the DPRK would take necessary measures to defend state interests.
Recent data from TRM Labs shows groups linked to North Korea were responsible for 76% of all crypto hack losses through April 2026. This was largely due to two major attacks accounting for $577 million in stolen funds.
The blockchain intelligence firm noted the number of attacks has not increased, but their financial impact has grown significantly. This indicates a strategic shift toward fewer, higher-value targets, with experts suggesting the possible use of AI tools in planning.
