One hundred thousand North Korean workers remained employed overseas in 2023, according to information in the latest U.N. Panel of Experts report, generating an estimated $500 million in annual revenue for the heavily sanctioned nation.

The workers are active in approximately 40 countries in industries including information technology, construction, hospitality and medicine, according to information provided by a Member State to the panel overseeing the DPRK sanctions regime.

“The vast majority are reportedly working in two countries,” the report noted, without specifying the countries. “Once the border reopens further, [North Korea] is expected to send a large number of additional