North Korea confirmed Friday, Nov. 3, 2023 that its closing some of its diplomatic missions abroad, amid outside suspicions the steps are the latest sign of its economic troubles amid U.S.-led international sanctions. (Jeon Heon-Kyun/Pool Photo via AP, File)(Jeon Heon-Kyun)SEOUL – North Korea confirmed Friday that it’s closing some of its diplomatic missions abroad, a move that rival South Korea suspects is likely the latest sign of the North's economic troubles amid persistent international sanctions. According to South Korean government data, North Korea has diplomatic relations with more than 150 countries but operates just around 50 diplomatic posts abroad. South Korean officials couldn't immediately confirm if North Korea is truly opening new diplomatic missions abroad. South Korea’s Foreign Ministry said Thursday that North Korea may close additional diplomatic missions.

Source: The Nation November 03, 2023 17:30 UTC