[Exclusive] RFA Confirms North Korean Authorities' COVID-19 Cases at End of Last Month

[Asia Economy Reporter Dongwoo Lee] According to Radio Free Asia (RFA) on the 18th (local time), North Korean authorities recently confirmed COVID-19 cases to citizens during a public lecture held late last month. This is noteworthy as it contradicts North Korea's previous official denial of any COVID-19 outbreaks.

RFA, citing sources from Pyongyang and Yanggang Province, reported that North Korean authorities explained in the lecture that confirmed COVID-19 cases occurred in Pyongyang, South Hwanghae Province, and North Hamgyong Province, although they did not disclose the exact number of confirmed cases. RFA added that the outbreak locations were Pyongyang, South Hwanghae Province, and North Hamgyong Province.

Previously, North Korea had strengthened border inspections, ordered foreigners visiting from countries with reported COVID-19 cases to stay in quarantine facilities for 30 days, and expelled dozens of diplomats abroad.

Meanwhile, the Korean Central News Agency reported that North Korean authorities are investigating whether there is still a possibility of virus entry under the "complete closure measures of borders, airspace, and territorial waters" until infectious diseases worldwide become controllable.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.