The article discusses how cybersecurity researcher Nick Roy uncovered signs of North Koreans working on major international TV shows by discovering a misconfigured cloud server containing thousands of animation files on a North Korean IP address. The findings revealed North Korea’s ability to use skilled IT and tech workers to generate funds for its heavily sanctioned regime, with possible connections to popular shows like Amazon Prime’s “Invincible” and HBO Max’s children’s anime.
Highlights:
1. Nick Roy’s discovery of a misconfigured cloud server on a North Korean IP address containing animation files hinted at North Koreans working on major international TV shows.
2. The findings, detailed in a report by the Stimson Center’s 38 North Project, shed light on how North Korea uses skilled IT workers to generate funds for its regime despite sanctions.
3. The investigation uncovered possible links to popular shows like “Invincible” and “Iyanu: Child of Wonder,” with indications of involvement by North Korean animators possibly facilitated through front companies in China.
Summary:
The article reveals Nick Roy’s discovery of a misconfigured cloud server in North Korea containing animation files related to major international TV shows, shedding light on how the country utilizes skilled IT workers to raise funds despite sanctions. The investigation highlights the challenges of enforcing sanctions on North Korea and the potential involvement of front companies in China to obscure the origin of activities.
Editorial content by Dakota Sullivan
