North Korea denies crypto theft amid $577M blockchain hacks

North Korea denies state-backed crypto theft, calling it slander. However, blockchain data links the regime to $577M in hacks in early 2026, contradicting official statements.

North Korea has strongly denied allegations of state-sponsored cryptocurrency theft and cyber threats, dismissing such claims as politically motivated slander intended to harm its international reputation. The foreign ministry, via the Korean Central News Agency, accused the United States and its media of spreading false narratives to justify a hostile policy toward North Korea. Officials argued that it is unreasonable for Washington, described as a leading cyber power, to portray itself as a victim. North Korea warned it would not tolerate confrontation and would take all necessary measures to defend its interests. Despite these denials, blockchain intelligence firms like TRM Labs reported that North Korea-linked actors were responsible for about $577 million in crypto theft during the first four months of 2026, accounting for 76% of global hack losses in that period. Major incidents included the KelpDAO and Drift Protocol exploits. Since 2017, cumulative losses attributed to North Korea reportedly exceed $6 billion, contradicting the regime's official stance.