North Korea is facing the closure of approximately a dozen embassies worldwide, including those in Spain, Hong Kong, and several African countries, as reported by Aha Lifestyle. The closures are attributed to North Korea’s struggle to generate income abroad due to international sanctions, according to South Korea’s unification ministry. This move signifies a significant shift in North Korea’s foreign policy and could have wide-ranging implications.
The closure of embassies in Angola and Uganda was recently announced by North Korean state media outlet KCNA. These two countries have maintained friendly relations with North Korea since the 1970s, providing military cooperation and financial resources. The closure will not only impact diplomatic engagement but also humanitarian work and North Korea’s ability to generate illicit revenue.
This decision reflects the growing impact of international sanctions aimed at curbing funding for North Korea’s nuclear and missile programs. It also underscores the challenging economic situation in North Korea, making it difficult to maintain diplomatic relations with traditionally friendly countries.
Before these recent closures, North Korea had diplomatic missions in 53 countries and formal relations with 159 countries. The closure of embassies abroad indicates a tightening of North Korea’s resources and a withdrawal from global engagement.
The closure of North Korea’s embassy in Madrid, Spain, gained attention in 2019 when a group seeking the overthrow of Kim Jong Un staged a break-in. Pyongyang accused the United States of not thoroughly investigating the group responsible and refusing to extradite its leader. North Korea considered the incident a breach of sovereignty and a terrorist attack, further souring its relations with Spain.
To handle affairs in Spain, North Korea’s embassy in Italy will take charge. The closure of embassies in Spain, Hong Kong, and various African countries will undoubtedly have a significant impact on North Korea’s diplomatic presence worldwide. It remains to be seen how these closures will affect the country’s future foreign policy and its ability to navigate international relations.
