Cell phones, Wi-Fi networks usage has increased in North Korea, claims study

Two US-based researchers have discovered that up to 7 million North Korean citizens use cell phones and Wi-Fi networks regularly. The steep rise took place as mobile devices became an important tool for market activity in the isolated country, the researchers added. According to a report by Reuters, Martyn Williams and Natalia Slavney of the Washington-based Stimson Center’s 38 North programme have claimed that their latest study on digital communications in North Korea showed a stable rise in cellular users. The study included an analysis of satellite imagery and a survey of about 40 defectors who fled the country between 2017 and 2021.

How cellular users have increased in North Korea
The number of cellular users in North Korea increased from 6.5 million to 7 million with the initiation of 3G network services in 2008. This number is more than a quarter of North Korea’s 25 million population, the researchers added.