G7 Labels North Korea’s Crypto Thefts a Global Security Threat
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At the G7 summit in Evian on 18 June, leaders warned that North Korea-linked cybertheft is a growing global security threat after Lazarus-associated hacks netted about $2 billion in 2025 and $7.35 billion total by 2026, citing major incidents like the $1.5 billion Bybit breach, the $285 million Drift Protocol exploit and the $36 million Humanity Protocol hack. The statement signals likely tougher crypto security and compliance measures — including increased blockchain surveillance and tighter rules for CEXs, DEXs and DeFi platforms — to trace stolen funds and reduce the risk of illicit financing of weapons programs.
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At the recent G7 summit in Evian, France, world leaders agreed to work together against North Korea’s growing crypto theft and cybercrime activities. The move comes after a series of major attacks linked to North Korean hackers, including the infamous $1.5 billion Bybit hack.
G7 leaders raise concerns that crypto theft is funding North Korea’s nuclear program.
G7 Warns Stolen Crypto Could Be Funding Nuclear Program
In a joint statement released on 18 June, G7 leaders warned that North Korea’s cryptocurrency thefts and cybercrimes now pose a global security threat.
According to the United Nations and several cybersecurity firms, North Korean hacking groups have used stolen crypto funds to help finance the country’s weapons programs.
“We express deep concern about North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs and reaffirm our commitment to the complete denuclearization of North Korea in accordance with UN Security Council resolutions.”
The group urged member nations to work together to combat the growing wave of attacks while also expressing concern over North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs.
“We urge North Korea to resolve the abductions issue immediately. We reiterate the need to jointly address North Korea’s cryptocurrency thefts and cybercrimes.”
Billions Continue To Flow To North Korean Hackers
The G7’s warning comes as North Korea-linked crypto thefts continue to rise. The Lazarus Group, a hacking organization widely linked to North Korea, has been blamed for several high-profile attacks on crypto exchanges and DeFi platforms.
According to Chainalysis, hackers connected to the country stole at least $2 billion in 2025, pushing the total amount linked to DPRK-backed groups to around $7.35 billion by 2026.
North Korea is now responsible for a large share of global crypto thefts, accounting for 64% of all stolen crypto in 2025 and 76% of losses recorded in early 2026.
Researchers say hackers are also changing tactics, often posing as recruiters, investors, or IT workers to gain access to crypto companies.
Recent incidents linked to North Korean actors include the $285 million Drift Protocol exploit and the $36 million Humanity Protocol hack.
What G7 Is Planning Next?
Well, the G7 did not announce specific penalties, sanctions, or enforcement measures.
However, the latest statement suggests governments are preparing to treat crypto-related cybercrime much differently than before.
That could mean stronger blockchain surveillance, tighter compliance requirements for exchanges, and closer international cooperation on tracking stolen funds.
