North Korea has continued its illicit foreign currency acquisition efforts through malicious cyber activities, including cryptocurrency theft, hacking, and the outsourcing of IT projects abroad. These operations not only undermine the security of the global cyber ecosystem but also represent a critical threat to international peace and security, as the funds are used for the development of the regime’s nuclear and missile programs.   A key component of these activities is the deployment of IT personnel overseas. These individuals, often affiliated with government-controlled agencies such as the Munitions Industry Department, operate in countries like China, Russia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. Under false identities, they secure contracts with international IT companies while reportedly participating in data theft and cyberattacks.   In light of these threats, the South Korean government has imposed independent sanctions on 15 North Korean IT operatives and one associated organization. These measures aim to curtail the regime’s ability to raise funds for its weapons programs through illicit foreign currency operations.   The sanctioned individualsare members of Bureau 313, a subordinate body of the Workers’ Party of Korea’s Munitions Industry Department. Bureau 313 coordinates the deployment of North Korean IT personnel abroad and uses the foreign currency generated to finance the regime’s nuclear and missile programs. The bureau also plays a role in developing military-related software. The Munitions Industry Department itself is responsible for overseeing North Korea’s weapons production and research, including ballistic missile programs, and is already subject to United Nations sanctions.   The South Korean government, working closely with the international community, remains resolute in its efforts to block North Korea’s illegal cyber activities. The newly implemented sanctions will take effect at midnight on December 30, as announced in the official gazette. Financial and foreign exchange transactions involving the sanctioned individuals and entities will now require prior authorization from the Financial Services Commission or the Governor of the Bank of Korea. Unauthorized transactions will be subject to penalties under relevant laws.     These measures underscore the government’s commitment to disrupting North Korea’s illicit activities and addressing the global security threats posed by the regime’s cyber operations.