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North Korea's Forced Labor Program Generates $500 Million Annually

3/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Global Rights Compliance report states North Korea's state-sponsored forced labor program generates up to $500 million annually.
The program has expanded in recent years, sending over 100,000 workers to 40 countries.
Workers face harsh conditions, including control, abuse, and coercion.
In Russia, laborers endure 16-hour days, receive about $10 a month after deductions, and live in overcrowded, unheated containers, with showers only once or twice a year.

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Story summary

The Global Rights Compliance report states North Korea's state-sponsored forced labor program generates up to $500 million annually.
The program has expanded in recent years, sending over 100,000 workers to 40 countries.
Workers face harsh conditions, including control, abuse, and coercion.
In Russia, laborers endure 16-hour days, receive about $10 a month after deductions, and live in overcrowded, unheated containers, with showers only once or twice a year.