Analysis
Latest NK PRO analysis related to the DPRK
Trump revives playbook on North Korea diplomacy, but Kim holds more cards now
Reduced military drills may reopen the door to talks, but Pyongyang has fewer incentives to engage than in 2018
August 18, 2026
Growing Russia-North Korea trade may not yet transform DPRK’s economy
DPRK-Russia commercial ties are becoming more visible, but the data shows gains so far remain in heavy industries
August 17, 2026
North Korea is China’s biggest foreign wine market for fourth year in a row
DPRK sources wine through bulk imports at low cost, which likely makes its way to domestic bottlers and distributors
Seoul’s restoration of inter-Korean railway could still reap benefits: experts
While the project may not lead to a change in North Korea’s position, it could contribute to infrastructure development
August 6, 2026
What 30,000 North Korean troops could mean for Russia’s war against Ukraine
Experts say deployment is feasible but question whether DPRK personnel would be sent directly into frontline combat
July 27, 2026
Lee’s North Korea policy ‘reset’ waits on a Pyongyang that sees no need
Experts say Seoul’s peace-first strategy is coherent, but its success depends on changes beyond South Korea’s control
July 24, 2026
Beyond the photo ops: What lies behind North Korea and China’s diplomatic surge
Delegation visits highlight Beijing’s push for influence, but only time will tell if the momentum will last, experts say
July 23, 2026
A closer look into North Korea’s latest reshuffling of its leadership
A senior official was investigated for corruption while an unnamed military officer rose in rank and prominence
July 22, 2026
North Korea’s trade with China sees H1 jump despite monthly slump: data
Pyongyang and Beijing continued sanctioned trade amid growing exchanges of fabrics, human hair and other usual drivers
July 20, 2026
Why Russia should be part of Trump’s next North Korea strategy
Washington should look beyond Pyongyang and address the Moscow ties driving Kim Jong Un’s new confidence
July 20, 2026
