About the Author

Colin Zwirko
Colin Zwirko is a Senior Analytic Correspondent for NK News based in Seoul. Follow him on Twitter @ColinZwirko.
North Korean authorities have threatened severe punishment — including the death penalty — for citizens who mishandle emergency medicine, according to images obtained by NK News of a notice posted outside a Pyongyang pharmacy in May, just days after state media announced the country’s first COVID-19 outbreak.
The decree (포고), released by the Ministry of Public Security on May 14, states family members of violators will also be punished under the principle of guilt by association.