Part 3/11:
North Korea's strategy has largely been dependent on the export of various goods, primarily raw materials such as coal, iron, and electricity—supplies essential to China's industrial needs. Notably, this trade flow persisted even in the face of rigorous sanctions. In 2017, a significant vote by the UN Security Council aimed to ban the export of coal, iron, and seafood from North Korea generated catastrophic consequences for the nation’s economy.
Before sanctions, trade with China amounted to a robust $2.5 billion; post-sanctions, this figure plummeted to a mere $300 million. In an unexpected twist, North Korea has increasingly resorted to exporting peculiar items. By 2023, wigs, fake beards, and fake eyelashes constituted nearly 60% of their exports to China.