Pyongyang accused of bypassing sanctions to increase imports of luxury goods

By Lim Chang-won Posted : October 12, 2017, 15:43 Updated : October 12, 2017, 15:43

[AP/Yonhap News Photo]


North Korea has bypassed international sanctions to increase imports of luxury goods used by leader Kim Jong-un for his pleasure and charm offensive to ally discontent among the ruling elite, according to an annual report by a South Korean lawmaker.

Imports of luxury items rose 9.8 percent on-year to 666.4 million US dollars in 2016, Yoon Sang-Hyun of the conservative opposition Liberty Korea Party said in his report, citing Chinese customs data.

Imported luxury items such as high-end cars, liquor, watches, artworks, cosmetics, fur, leather products, leisure facilities and musical instruments accounted for 17.9 percent of North Korea's total imports valued at $3.72 billion last year, Yoon said.

Sanctions will not work without Beijing's help as much of the luxury goods come through China, he said, calling for China's active participation in sanctions.

In October last year, the South's National Intelligence Service said Kim appeared to be pursuing a luxurious lifestyle, although his governing fund has been drying up in the face of an economic pinch and international sanctions prompted by missile and nuclear tests.

Like his late father, Kim has doled out luxury goods to appease discontent among the elite while resorting to the reign of terror to consolidate his power.

In October last year, the South's National Intelligence Service (NIS) said Kim appeared to be pursuing a luxurious lifestyle, although his governing fund has been drying up in the face of an economic pinch and international sanctions prompted by missile and nuclear tests.

Electronic products topped the list of luxury goods shipped to North Korea last year with $332.5 million, followed by high-end sedans with $260 million, Yoon said. Imports of watches, cars and carpets increased but jewelry and musical instruments were among the items that saw a decline.


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