April 19, 2024
COVID-19

North Korean COVID-19 testing plummets from record highs

DPRK collects less than quarter of samples reported in early March, as Gavi continues ‘dialogue’ with North on vaccines

North Korean COVID-19 testing numbers have fallen back to Earth after soaring to unprecedented highs last month, the latest data from the World Health Organization (WHO) shows, even as it remains unclear what drove the weekslong surge in testing.

The DPRK tested 3,991 samples between March 11 and 17, a more than fourfold decline from 16,287 samples between March 4 and 11, according to the WHO’s weekly situation report published late Sunday. 

Become a member for less than $4 per week.

  • Unlimited access to all of NK News: reporting, investigations, analysis
  • The NK News Daily Update, an email newsletter to keep you in the loop
  • Searchable archive of all content, photo galleries, special columns
  • Contact NK News reporters with tips or requests for reporting
Get unlimited access to all NK News content, including original reporting, investigations, and analyses by our team of DPRK experts.
Subscribe now

All major cards accepted. No commitments – you can cancel any time.