History of North Korea in Timeline
North Korea, officially known as the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), is located in East Asia and occupies the northern half of the Korean Peninsula. It shares borders with China and Russia to the north, and with South Korea to the south along the Korean Demilitarized Zone. The Yellow Sea forms its western border, while the Sea of Japan defines its eastern boundary. Both North and South Korea claim sovereignty over the entire peninsula and nearby islands. Pyongyang serves as the capital and largest city of North Korea.
1910: Japanese Annexation of Korea
In 1910, the Korean Empire, proclaimed by King Gojong in 1897, was annexed by the Empire of Japan, marking the end of Korean independence and the beginning of Japanese colonial rule.
1910: Annexation of Korea by Japan
In 1910, the Korean Empire, which had succeeded the Joseon Dynasty, was annexed by the Empire of Japan, marking the beginning of a period of Japanese rule over Korea.
1910: Japanese Rule Begins
Japanese rule over Korea commenced in 1910, marking the start of a period of cultural assimilation.
1910: Beginning of Japanese Rule
Korea came under Japanese rule in 1910, with significant consequences for its economy and society.
October 1945: Establishment of Soviet Civil Administration
Following Japan's surrender, the Soviet Union established the Soviet Civil Administration in October 1945 to administer the northern part of Korea.
1945: End of Japanese Rule
Japanese rule over Korea ended in 1945, with the division of the peninsula.
1945: Division of Korea
Following Japan's surrender in World War II in 1945, Korea was divided along the 38th parallel, with the Soviet Union occupying the north and the United States occupying the south.
1945: Division of Korea and Cultural Divergence
Following Korea's division in 1945, distinct cultures emerged in North and South Korea, with North Korea remaining largely isolated from external influences.
1945: End of Japanese Rule
Japanese rule over Korea ended in 1945 with the conclusion of World War II, but the country's division into two zones set the stage for future conflicts.
February 1946: Establishment of Provisional People's Committee
In February 1946, the Provisional People's Committee of North Korea was formed with Kim Il-sung as its chairman.
September 1946: Uprising in South Korea
South Korean citizens launched an uprising against the Allied Military Government in September 1946.
April 1948: Suppression of Jeju Uprising
An uprising on Jeju Island in April 1948 was met with a forceful response from South Korean authorities.
May 1948: Establishment of the Republic of Korea
The Republic of Korea (South Korea) declared its independence in May 1948.
September 1948: Establishment of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (North Korea) was officially established in September 1948.
1948: North Korea Officially Adopts Name
Following the division of the Korean Peninsula, North Korea formally adopted the official name "Democratic People's Republic of Korea" in 1948.
1948: Soviet Withdrawal from North Korea
Soviet forces withdrew from North Korea in 1948 after supporting the establishment of the DPRK.
1948: Establishment of North and South Korea
With the Cold War intensifying, separate governments were established in 1948: the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) in the north, aligned with the Soviet Union, and the Republic of Korea (ROK) in the south, aligned with the United States.
1949: US Troop Withdrawal from South Korea
The majority of US forces withdrew from South Korea in 1949, although the US continued to provide support to the South Korean government.
June 1950: North Korea Invades South Korea
On June 25, 1950, the Korean War began when the North Korean military, under the leadership of Kim Il-sung, launched a surprise attack on South Korea, rapidly advancing southward.
1950: Social Status Determination
Individuals descended from those who fought alongside Kim Il Sung against Japanese occupation before and during World War II, along with factory workers, laborers, and peasants in 1950, were granted the highest social status in North Korea.
1950: Outbreak of the Korean War
In 1950, tensions between North and South Korea escalated into the Korean War, as North Korean forces, supported by the Soviet Union and China, invaded South Korea.
July 1953: Korean Armistice Agreement
The fighting in the Korean War came to an end on July 27, 1953, with the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement. The agreement established a demilitarized zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea, but it did not formally end the war.
1953: Korean Armistice Agreement
The Korean War reached a ceasefire in 1953 with the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement, which established a demilitarized zone (DMZ) between the two Koreas, but a formal peace treaty was never signed.
December 1955: Introduction of Juche Ideology
Kim Il Sung outlined the principles of Juche, emphasizing a Korea-centered revolution, in a speech titled "On Eliminating Dogmatism and Formalism and Establishing Juche in Ideological Work" in December 1955.
1956: August Faction Incident
The August Faction Incident of 1956 saw Kim Il Sung successfully resist attempts by the Soviet Union and China to remove him from power, showcasing North Korea's growing desire for political independence.
1957: North Korean Industry Recovers
By 1957, North Korea's industrial production had recovered to its pre-Korean War levels, highlighting the country's focus on industrial development.
October 1958: Chinese Troops Withdraw from North Korea
In October 1958, Chinese troops fully withdrew from North Korea, marking a significant turning point as many scholars consider this the moment North Korea achieved true political independence.
1958: Kim Il Sung on Social Classes
In 1958, Kim Il Sung outlined a class system in North Korea with three main categories: the loyal "core class" (25%), the "wavering class" (55%), and the "hostile class" (20%).
1959: Improved Relations with Japan and Currency Revaluation
In 1959, relations between North Korea and Japan saw some improvement, leading to the repatriation of Japanese citizens from North Korea. Additionally, North Korea revalued its currency, the North Korean won, resulting in it having a higher value than the South Korean won.
1959: Establishment of Mansudae Art Studio
In 1959, the Mansudae Art Studio, likely the world's largest art factory, was established in North Korea. Employing about 1,000 artists, it became a central hub for the creation of paintings, murals, posters, and monuments, reflecting the government's control over artistic expression. It also operates commercially, exporting works internationally and undertaking large-scale monument projects through its Mansudae Overseas Projects division. Notable international commissions include the African Renaissance Monument in Senegal and the Heroes' Acre in Namibia.
1960: North Korea's Economic Shift Leads to Inefficiency
Around 1960, North Korea's economy transitioned from extensive to intensive development, resulting in systematic inefficiency and hindering long-term growth.
1961: Population at 10.9 Million
North Korea's population stood at 10.9 million in 1961.
1964: North Korea's Olympic Debut
North Korea made its first appearance at the Olympic Games in 1964, marking its entry into international sporting competition. This debut signifies the country's desire to participate and gain recognition on the global stage.
1966: North Korea's Historic World Cup Upset
In the 1966 FIFA World Cup, the North Korean national football team achieved a historic victory, defeating Italy 1-0. They advanced to the quarter-finals, eventually losing to Portugal 3-5. This unexpected success remains a significant moment in North Korean sports history.
1968: Assassination Attempt on South Korean Leaders
In 1968, North Korea's attempts to assassinate South Korean leaders marked a period of heightened tensions and hostility between the two nations.
1971: Secret North-South Korea Contacts Begin
Marking a shift in inter-Korea relations, secret high-level contacts between North and South Korea were initiated in 1971, aiming towards peaceful reunification.
1971: Premiere of "Sea of Blood" Opera
The revolutionary opera "Sea of Blood" premiered in North Korea in 1971. This opera, a significant example of North Korea's ideologically driven art forms, conveys political messages through a blend of orchestral music and traditional Korean ch'angguk elements. It gained immense popularity, with over 1,500 performances and a successful tour in China in 2010.
1972: Juche enshrined in North Korean Constitution
The ideology of Juche, emphasizing self-reliance and independence, was formally incorporated into the North Korean constitution in 1972.
1972: July 4 South–North Joint Statement
In 1972, North and South Korea achieved a milestone with the July 4 South–North Joint Statement, outlining principles for peaceful reunification. However, these talks later faltered.
1972: Agreement for Peaceful Reunification
In 1972, North and South Korea reached a significant agreement, committing in principle to pursue reunification through peaceful means and without external interference.
1972: North Korea's Summer Olympics Debut and Medal Wins
The 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich marked North Korea's first participation in the summer games. They showcased their athletic prowess by securing five medals, including a gold medal. This achievement demonstrated North Korea's emerging presence in international sports.
1973: South Korea's Stance on International Organizations
In 1973, South Korea declared its intention to pursue separate memberships in international organizations, a stance that ultimately led to the breakdown of reunification talks with North Korea.
1973: Establishment of the Ministry of State Security
In 1973, North Korea established the Ministry of State Security as a separate entity from the Ministry of Public Security. Tasked with domestic and foreign intelligence, counterintelligence, and the management of political prisons, the ministry played a crucial role in maintaining the government's control and suppressing dissent.
1974: North Korea Officially Abolishes Taxes
North Korea officially abolished taxes in 1974, adding to the state's extensive subsidization of food and housing.
1974: Assassination Attempt on South Korean Leaders
Tensions between North and South Korea continued to escalate in 1974 with another attempt by North Korea to assassinate South Korean leaders.
1976: Axe Murder Incident at Panmunjom
The axe murder incident at Panmunjom in 1976, where two US Army officers were killed by North Korean soldiers, further fueled tensions between North Korea, South Korea, and the United States.
1976: North Korean GDP per Capita Matches South Korea
Until the 1960s, North Korea experienced significant economic growth, surpassing South Korea. This period of growth culminated in 1976 when North Korea's GDP per capita was on par with South Korea's, marking a high point for its economy.
1978: Russian and English Made Compulsory
In 1978, North Korea made the study of Russian and English compulsory in upper middle schools.
1979: Observations of Kim Il Sung's Cult of Personality
During a visit to North Korea in 1979, journalist Bradley Martin observed the pervasive presence of Kim Il Sung's personality cult, noting that various forms of art extolled the "Great Leader."
October 1980: Kim Il Sung's Proposal for a Democratic Federal Republic of Korea
In October 1980, North Korean leader Kim Il Sung put forward a proposal for a federation between North and South Korea called the Democratic Federal Republic of Korea. This proposal aimed for reunification while maintaining each side's leadership and political systems.
1983: Rangoon Bombing
North Korea was implicated in the Rangoon bombing of 1983, contributing to its designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.
1983: Rangoon Bombing
The Rangoon bombing in 1983, an attempt by North Korea to assassinate South Korean President Chun Doo-hwan, significantly escalated tensions between the two nations and drew international condemnation.
1987: Bombing of South Korean Airliner
North Korea's alleged involvement in the bombing of a South Korean airliner in 1987 further solidified its image as a state sponsor of terrorism.
1987: Beginning of Economic Stagnation
After a period of growth, North Korea's economy began to stagnate in 1987, marking the start of a long economic decline.
1990: External Trade Peaks
North Korea's external trade peaked in 1990, reaching a total of $7.3 billion.
December 1991: Dissolution of the Soviet Union
The dissolution of the Soviet Union on December 26, 1991, marked the end of a major era for North Korea, leading to the loss of crucial aid and support.
1991: North Korea Joins the United Nations
Both North Korea and South Korea were granted membership into the United Nations in 1991.
1991: North Korea joins the United Nations
North Korea gained membership in the United Nations in 1991.
1991: Collapse of the Soviet Union Impacts North Korea
The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 had a devastating impact on North Korea's economy. The sudden halt of Soviet aid led to a near-total collapse of the North Korean economy.
1991: Collapse of the Soviet Union
The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 had a profound impact on North Korea, leading to a significant decline in economic aid and support, which contributed to a period of economic hardship.
1992: Marxism-Leninism Removed from Constitution
By 1992, references to Marxism-Leninism were removed from the North Korean constitution, signifying the dominance of Juche.
1992: Kim Jong Il's Rise to Power
With Kim Il Sung's health declining in 1992, Kim Jong Il gradually assumed various state responsibilities, marking the beginning of his ascension to power.
December 1993: North Korea Declares Seven-Year Plan Unsuccessful
In December 1993, North Korea announced the failure of its latest seven-year plan and ceased publicizing any further plans.
1994: Agreed Framework and Sunshine Policy
In 1994, North Korea agreed to halt its nuclear weapons program under the Agreed Framework signed with U.S. President Bill Clinton. This period also saw South Korea engage in the Sunshine Policy, aiming to improve relations with North Korea.
1994: Death of Kim Il Sung and Rise of Kim Jong Il
Kim Il Sung's death from a heart attack in 1994 led to a three-year period of national mourning, after which Kim Jong Il officially assumed leadership of North Korea.
1994: Beginning of North Korean Famine
A severe famine struck North Korea in 1994, exacerbated by a combination of factors, including economic mismanagement, natural disasters, and the loss of Soviet assistance.
1994: Death of Kim Il Sung
In 1994, Kim Il Sung, the founder and leader of North Korea, died. He was succeeded by his son, Kim Jong Il.
1995: North Korean Famine Begins
The devastating North Korean famine began in 1995, lasting for three years and claiming the lives of an estimated 240,000 to 420,000 people.
1996: North Korean Famine and Acceptance of UN Aid
Severe flooding in the mid-1990s, coupled with existing economic hardships, led to a devastating famine in North Korea. This crisis resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and forced the government to accept UN food aid in 1996.
1997: Screening of "Titanic" for Educational Purposes
The 1997 film "Titanic" was shown to university students in North Korea as an example of Western culture. This screening reflects the government's controlled exposure of foreign media, using it for ideological critique and education, while limiting public access to Western productions.
1997: International Aid Shipments Begin
In 1997, international donors, primarily the United States, started sending food aid to North Korea through the World Food Program to address a severe famine.
1998: Malnutrition Rate at 60%
By 1998, the malnutrition rate among North Korean children had reached a startling 60% due to the ongoing famine.
1998: North Korea Initiates Structural Reforms
In an effort to recover from economic collapse, North Korea implemented structural reforms in 1998. These reforms formally legalized private asset ownership and decentralized control over production.
1998: South Korea's Sunshine Policy
The Sunshine Policy, initiated by South Korean President Kim Dae-jung in 1998, aimed to improve relations with North Korea through engagement and cooperation. It led to normalized relations between North Korea and several European Union countries.
1998: Continuation of North Korean Famine
The devastating famine that began in 1994 continued to grip North Korea in 1998, resulting in widespread malnutrition and hardship for the population.
2000: International Food Aid Improves Situation in North Korea
By 2000, the humanitarian situation in North Korea saw improvement due to a large-scale international food assistance program.
2000: Expected Population Growth Did Not Occur
Demographic projections in the 20th century predicted North Korea's population to reach 25.5 million by 2000, but this growth failed to materialize due to the North Korean famine.
2000: Impact of Inter-Korean Summit on North Korean Pop Music
The inter-Korean summit in 2000 led to improved relations between North and South Korea. Consequently, North Korean pop music saw a decrease in overt political messages, although themes like comradeship, nostalgia, and national strength persisted. This shift reflects a subtle change in cultural control within North Korea.
2000: Inter-Korean Summit and the June 15th Joint Declaration
The year 2000 witnessed a historic inter-Korean summit, with South Korean President Kim Dae-jung visiting Kim Jong Il in Pyongyang. The summit resulted in the June 15th North-South Joint Declaration, where both sides pledged to strive for peaceful reunification.
2001: George W. Bush's Presidency and Policy Shift
George W. Bush's presidency in 2001 marked a significant shift in U.S. policy towards North Korea. His administration rejected the Agreed Framework and South Korea's Sunshine Policy, leading to increased tensions.
2002: Axis of Evil Speech
In his 2002 State of the Union Address, George W. Bush labeled North Korea as part of the "axis of evil," reflecting a hardening stance against the country and its pursuit of nuclear weapons.
2002: Cellular Subscribers
North Korea had a mere 3,000 cellular subscribers in 2002.
2002: North Korea Expands Market Activities and Implements Incentives
North Korea launched a second wave of reforms in 2002, expanding market activities, partially monetizing the economy, introducing flexible prices and wages, and implementing incentive and accountability systems.
2002: Population Growth Rate Declines
The population growth rate in North Korea dropped to 0.9% annually in 2002, a decline attributed to the impact of the famine.
2003: Access to Water and Sanitation
A 2003 United States Department of State report stated that nearly all of North Korea's population had access to water and sanitation.
July 2004: Goguryeo Tombs Designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site
In July 2004, the Complex of Koguryo Tombs in North Korea was recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. This marked the first time a North Korean site received this distinction. The complex features 63 burial mounds with well-preserved murals, offering insights into the Goguryeo culture's burial practices, which influenced civilizations beyond Korea, including Japan.
2004: US State Department's Assessment of North Korea's Military Spending
The US State Department estimated that from 2004 to 2014, North Korea's military spending averaged 23% of its GDP. This level of military expenditure, the highest globally during that period, underscored the North Korean government's prioritization of military strength, even as its people faced economic hardships.
2004: South Korean Assessment of North Korea's Chemical Weapons Stockpile
A 2004 South Korean assessment estimated that North Korea possessed a substantial stockpile of chemical weapons, ranging between 2,500 and 5,000 tons, including various deadly agents, raising serious concerns about the country's weapons capabilities.
2005: Foreign Trade Surpasses Pre-Crisis Levels
In 2005, North Korea's foreign trade exceeded levels seen before a previous economic crisis and continued to grow.
July 2006: UN Security Council Resolution 1695
In response to North Korea's missile tests, the UN Security Council imposed sanctions on the country through Resolution 1695 in July 2006.
October 2006: North Korea's First Nuclear Test
In a move that drew international condemnation, North Korea conducted its first nuclear weapons test on October 9, 2006, escalating global tensions and raising concerns about its nuclear ambitions.
October 2006: UN Security Council Resolution 1718
North Korea faced further international sanctions with the passing of UN Security Council Resolution 1718 in October 2006, following its nuclear tests.
2006: Strain in China-North Korea Relations
Beginning in 2006, relations between China and North Korea became strained due to concerns over North Korea's nuclear program.
2006: Malnutrition Rate Declines
The malnutrition rate among North Korean children decreased to 37% in 2006, indicating a gradual improvement in the food situation.
October 2007: Eight-Point Peace Agreement
In October 2007, South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun and North Korean leader Kim Jong Il signed an eight-point peace agreement, signaling a period of improving inter-Korean relations.
2007: Decline in Lower Respiratory Infections
The report also highlighted a 6% decline in deaths from lower respiratory infections in North Korea since 2007.
October 2008: North Korea Removed from U.S. Terrorism List
The United States removed North Korea from its list of state sponsors of terrorism in October 2008 following Pyongyang's agreement to cooperate on nuclear issues.
2008: Universal Literacy Claimed
North Korea's 2008 census declared a 100% literacy rate in the country.
2008: Child Mortality Rate Estimated
In 2008, North Korea's child mortality rate was estimated to be 45 per 1,000, significantly lower than other economically comparable nations.
June 2009: UN Security Council Resolution 1874
The UN Security Council adopted Resolution 1874 in June 2009, imposing additional sanctions on North Korea in response to its continued nuclear and missile activities.
2009: Outer Space Treaty
North Korea joined the Outer Space Treaty in 2009.
2009: Constitutional Amendments Emphasize Songun Policy
The North Korean constitution underwent revisions in 2009, omitting references to communism and highlighting the Songun policy, which prioritizes the military.
2009: Deterioration of Inter-Korean Relations
In 2009, inter-Korean relations significantly deteriorated after South Korea's change in leadership and a more hardline approach towards the North. This period saw heightened tensions, including North Korea's withdrawal from previous agreements, missile deployments, and the severing of diplomatic ties.
2009: North Korea Attempts to Curb Free Market Expansion
In 2009, the North Korean government attempted to limit the growth of the free market. They banned jangmadang (informal markets), prohibited foreign currency use, significantly devalued the won, and restricted the convertibility of savings in the old currency.
2010: "Sea of Blood" Opera Tours China
The North Korean revolutionary opera "Sea of Blood" embarked on a successful tour in China in 2010. This tour signifies the cultural exchange between the two countries and highlights the enduring popularity of the opera, which premiered in 1971.
2010: North Korea's Participation in the 2010 FIFA World Cup
The North Korean national football team, Chollima, competed in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. However, they faced defeat in all three matches against Brazil, Portugal, and Ivory Coast. Despite the losses, their participation highlights the importance of sports on the international stage for North Korea.
2010: Potential Areas for Inter-Korean Scientific Cooperation Identified
A report by the South Korean Science and Technology Policy Institute in 2010 highlighted areas like polymer chemistry, nanoscience, and nuclear technology as potential avenues for scientific collaboration between North and South Korea.
2010: North Korea's Military Expenditure
According to North Korean state media, military spending constituted 15.8 percent of the country's budget in 2010, reflecting the government's prioritization of military development, even amidst economic challenges.
2010: Projected Population Growth Did Not Materialize
Similarly, the projected population of 28 million by 2010 did not come to pass due to the famine.
2010: Tensions with South Korea and the US Escalate
Tensions between North Korea, South Korea, and the United States escalated significantly in 2010 following the sinking of the South Korean warship Cheonan and North Korea's shelling of Yeonpyeong Island.
December 2011: Death of Kim Jong Il and Rise of Kim Jong Un
On December 17, 2011, Kim Jong Il died of a heart attack, paving the way for his youngest son, Kim Jong Un, to succeed him as the leader of North Korea.
2011: Death of Kim Jong Il
Kim Jong Il, who succeeded his father as the leader of North Korea, died in 2011. He was subsequently declared "Eternal General Secretary" and "Eternal Chairman of the National Defence Commission".
December 2012: Kwangmyŏngsŏng-3 Unit 2 Launched
North Korea successfully launched the Kwangmyŏngsŏng-3 Unit 2 satellite in December 2012, marking its achievement as the tenth spacefaring nation.
2012: Associated Press Opens Bureau in Pyongyang
The Associated Press established the first Western all-format, full-time news bureau in Pyongyang, North Korea, in 2012. This event signifies a limited opening for Western media presence in the tightly controlled information environment of North Korea.
2012: Kim Un-guk's Weightlifting World Record at the London Olympics
North Korean weightlifter Kim Un-guk set a new world record in the Men's 62 kg category at the 2012 Summer Olympics in London. This remarkable feat earned him a gold medal and brought significant recognition to North Korea's weightlifting prowess. In recognition of his achievement, Kim received a luxurious apartment from the state, highlighting the rewards bestowed upon successful athletes.
2012: North Korea's Gross National Income per Capita Stands at $1,523
In 2012, North Korea's gross national income per capita was recorded at $1,523, a stark contrast to South Korea's $28,430.
January 2013: UN Security Council Resolution 2087
In January 2013, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2087, further tightening sanctions against North Korea following its satellite launch, which was widely seen as a cover for a ballistic missile test.
April 2013: Space Program Management Change
The management of North Korea's space program was transferred from the Korean Committee of Space Technology to the National Aerospace Technology Administration in April 2013.
December 2013: Dennis Rodman's Basketball Diplomacy
In December 2013, former NBA star Dennis Rodman visited North Korea to conduct basketball training for the national team. This visit, stemming from Rodman's friendship with Kim Jong Un, exemplifies unconventional sports diplomacy attempts involving North Korea.
2013: Overhaul of SEZs
North Korea revamped its system of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in 2013, opening 14 new zones and reforming the Rason SEZ as a joint project with China.
2013: High-Speed Railway Approved
Plans for a high-speed railway connecting Kaesong, Pyongyang, and Sinuiju at speeds over 200 km/h were greenlit in 2013.
2013: Formalization of "Mount Paektu Bloodline"
The "Ten Fundamental Principles of the Workers' Party of Korea" were amended in 2013 to include a clause stipulating that the party and revolution should be led indefinitely by the "Mount Paektu Bloodline," solidifying the Kim family's hold on power.
2013: Cardiovascular Disease as Leading Cause of Death
In 2013, cardiovascular disease was identified as the primary cause of death in North Korea, underscoring its impact on public health.
2013: Causes of Death in North Korea
In 2013, North Korea's leading causes of death resembled those of global averages rather than other low-income countries, with non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular disease and cancers being most prominent.
2013: Cellular Subscribers Grow
By 2013, the number of cellular subscribers in North Korea had surged to nearly two million.
2013: Food Production Recovers, Malnutrition Further Reduced
By 2013, North Korea's domestic food production had almost returned to the recommended levels, and the malnutrition rate among children had further dropped to 28%.
2014: Moranbong Band's Rise to Fame
The all-female Moranbong Band emerged as the most popular music group in North Korea in 2014. Their popularity signifies the evolving landscape of music and entertainment within the country, although still operating under strict government control.
2014: Low Population Growth Rate
The population growth rate in North Korea remained low at 0.5% in 2014, influenced by factors like late marriages and limited housing.
2014: Russia Writes Off Debt
In 2014, Russia forgave 90% of North Korea's debt, with the two countries agreeing to conduct all transactions in rubles.
2014: UN Inquiry Finds Evidence of Human Rights Violations in North Korea
In 2014, a UN inquiry uncovered evidence suggesting "systematic, widespread and gross human rights violations" in North Korea, a situation unparalleled in the contemporary world according to the report.
2014: Renewable Energy Regulations
North Korea adopted new legal regulations in 2014, emphasizing the development of renewable energy sources like geothermal, wind, and solar power, along with recycling and environmental protection.
2014: Miraewon Network Launched
North Korea established the Miraewon network of electronic libraries in 2014, as part of its push to promote a "powerful knowledge economy."
2014: North Korea Rejects Human Rights Abuse Claims
North Korea refuted human rights abuse allegations in 2014, labeling them a smear campaign aimed at toppling the government. They dismissed the accusations as baseless rumors.
2014: Sony Pictures Hack Attributed to North Korea
North Korean involvement was suspected in the 2014 cyberattack on Sony Pictures, underscoring the country's increasing sophistication in cyberwarfare and its willingness to use it as a tool to retaliate against perceived enemies.
2015: North Korea's Cyberwarfare Capabilities
Reports in 2015 highlighted North Korea's growing cyberwarfare capabilities, with an estimated 6,000 skilled personnel operating within a specialized unit based in China.
2015: Improved Sanitation Access
By 2015, 80% of North Korea's population had access to improved sanitation facilities.
2015: North Korea's Diplomatic Relations
As of 2015, North Korea had established diplomatic relations with 166 countries and maintained embassies in 47.
February 2016: Kwangmyongsong-4 Launched
North Korea announced the successful launch of a new Earth observation satellite, Kwangmyongsong-4, in February 2016.
September 2016: North Korea DNS Data Exposed
In September 2016, North Korea's Internet DNS data and top-level domain were accidentally left open, allowing for a global DNS zone transfer.
2016: World Bank Report on Deaths in North Korea
A 2016 World Bank report, using WHO data, indicated that 9.5% of deaths in North Korea were linked to communicable diseases and maternal, prenatal, and nutrition-related issues.
2016: Non-Communicable Diseases Dominate Death Causes
Non-communicable diseases accounted for 84% of all deaths in North Korea in 2016, highlighting their significant impact on mortality rates.
May 2017: Moon Jae-in Elected President of South Korea
Moon Jae-in's election as South Korean president in May 2017 marked a return to the Sunshine Policy and a commitment to improving inter-Korean relations.
August 2017: Trade Report
In August 2017, a report showed that China was North Korea's largest trading partner outside of inter-Korean trade.
November 2017: North Korea Re-designated as State Sponsor of Terrorism
In November 2017, under the Trump administration, North Korea was once again designated a state sponsor of terrorism by the United States due to continued nuclear tests.
December 2017: UN Security Council Resolution 2397
The UN Security Council imposed more stringent sanctions on North Korea in December 2017 through Resolution 2397, condemning the country's ongoing ballistic missile launches and nuclear weapons program.
2017: North Korea's Nuclear Ambitions
Despite international condemnation, North Korea continued to develop its nuclear arsenal, potentially including a hydrogen bomb and missiles capable of reaching the United States, throughout 2017.
2017: Panmunjom Declaration
The Panmunjom Declaration, signed in 2017 by North and South Korea, outlined a commitment to working towards the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and improving inter-Korean relations.
2017: Assassination of Kim Jong-nam
The assassination of Kim Jong-nam in 2017 caused a rift in relations between North Korea and Malaysia.
2017: Heightened Tensions with the US under Trump Administration
The year 2017 saw a dramatic increase in tensions between the U.S. and North Korea, fueled by heated rhetoric and threats exchanged between President Donald Trump and North Korea.
2017: North Korea Ranks Lowest in Press Freedom Index
In 2017, Reporters Without Borders ranked North Korea last (180th) in its annual Press Freedom Index. This ranking underscores the country's severe restrictions on media freedom, where all outlets function as government mouthpieces, journalists are compelled to be party members, and access to foreign broadcasts is severely penalized.
February 2018: Détente at the Winter Olympics
The 2018 Winter Olympics, hosted by South Korea, provided a platform for a thaw in inter-Korean relations, creating a more favorable atmosphere for dialogue and cooperation.
June 2018: Trump-Kim Summit in Singapore
In June 2018, US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un met in Singapore, marking the first meeting between leaders of the two nations. They signed an agreement to work towards the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula, reaffirming the commitments of the 2017 Panmunjom Declaration.
2018: Détente and Summits
A period of détente emerged in 2018, marking a significant de-escalation in tensions between North Korea, South Korea, and the United States. This shift facilitated a series of summits between Kim Jong Un, Moon Jae-in, and Donald Trump.
2018: North Korea Ranked Highest in Global Slavery Index
The 2018 Global Slavery Index revealed that North Korea had the highest percentage of its population enslaved, with 10.4% or 1,100,000 people subjected to forced labor.
February 2019: Trump-Kim Summit in Hanoi
Following their first meeting in 2018, Trump and Kim met again in Hanoi in February 2019 to further discuss denuclearization. However, the summit ended without an agreement.
April 2019: Xi Jinping's Visit to North Korea
Xi Jinping, the General Secretary of the Chinese Communist Party and Chinese President, visited North Korea in April 2019, marking an improvement in relations between the two countries.
June 2019: Trump-Kim Meeting at the DMZ
In a historic moment in June 2019, Trump met with Kim Jong Un and South Korean President Moon Jae-in at the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). This meeting marked the first time a sitting US president stepped into North Korean territory.
2019: Life Expectancy in North Korea
The Human Development Report 2020 reported that North Korea had a life expectancy of 72.3 years in 2019.
2019: Choe Ryong-hae Becomes Chairman of the SPA Standing Committee
In 2019, Choe Ryong-hae assumed the position of Chairman of the Supreme People's Assembly (SPA) Standing Committee, making him the third-ranking official in North Korea.
January 2020: North Korea Closes Borders to Foreign Tourists Due to COVID-19
In January 2020, North Korea made the decision to close its borders to international tourists as a response to the threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
August 2020: Kim Tok Hun Appointed Premier of North Korea
Kim Tok Hun was appointed as the Premier of North Korea in August 2020, becoming the second-ranking official after Kim Jong Un.
2020: Study on Religion in North Korea
A 2020 study by the Centre for the Study of World Christianity reported that a significant majority (73%) of North Koreans identify as irreligious, with smaller percentages adhering to Chondoism, Korean shamanism, Buddhism, and other religions.
2020: Human Development Report
The Human Development Report 2020 provided insights into North Korea's life expectancy and health indicators.
January 2021: Kim Jong Un Elected as General Secretary
On January 10, 2021, Kim Jong Un solidified his hold on power by being formally elected as the General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea, a title previously held by his father, Kim Jong Il.
October 2021: North Korea Tests Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missile
In a display of its evolving military capabilities, North Korea successfully test-fired a new type of submarine-launched ballistic missile in October 2021, raising concerns about the regional security implications.
2021: WPK Reaffirms Commitment to Communism
Despite previous constitutional changes, the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK) reiterated its dedication to communism in 2021.
March 2022: North Korea Conducts ICBM Test Launch
North Korea conducted a successful intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test launch in March 2022, marking its first such test since 2017 and escalating global concerns about its nuclear capabilities.
September 2022: North Korea Declares Itself a Nuclear State
In a controversial move, North Korea passed a law in September 2022 officially declaring itself a nuclear weapons state, further solidifying its position and raising alarms internationally.
September 2023: North Korea's Nuclear Arsenal Assessment
As of September 2023, assessments of North Korea's nuclear capabilities varied, with estimates suggesting the country possessed between 40 and 116 assembled nuclear warheads, highlighting the ongoing concerns surrounding its nuclear program.
December 30, 2023: North Korea's Provocative Declaration
On December 30, 2023, Kim Jong-un made a provocative statement labeling South Korea as a "colonial vassal state." This declaration marked a significant departure from the longstanding position of both Koreas claiming the entire peninsula as their own.
January 2024: North Korea Abandons Reunification Efforts
In a significant policy shift, North Korea, under Kim Jong Un's leadership, declared in January 2024 that it would no longer pursue reunification with South Korea. This announcement marked a hardening stance, with Kim advocating for the "occupation" and "subjugation" of South Korea in the event of war.
January 15, 2024: Call for Constitutional Amendment and Threat of Annexation
Further escalating tensions, Kim Jong-un called for a constitutional amendment on January 15, 2024, to redefine the border with South Korea as the 'Southern National Borderline.' He also threatened that North Korea would aim to annex all of South Korea in the event of war.
2024: Abandonment of Peaceful Reunification Efforts
In a significant policy shift, North Korea formally relinquished its pursuit of peaceful reunification with South Korea in 2024.
2044: Renewable Energy Goal
North Korea set a long-term goal to reduce fossil fuel use and generate 5 million kilowatts from renewable sources by 2044.