Recent reports have uncovered evidence of Chinese companies openly promoting exports to North Korea on Douyin, the Chinese version of TikTok, raising concerns about potential violations of the United Nations (UN) sanctions. As the range of advertised products expands from household appliances to vehicles and electric vehicle charging infrastructure, analysts on the 25th suggested that a private supply chain between China and North Korea may be actively functioning.
According to NK News, a media outlet focusing on North Korean affairs, Douyin has seen a surge in posts from Chinese companies advertising home appliances such as televisions (TVs), smartphones, and washing machines for export to North Korea. A Guangzhou-based company promoted ultra-slim TVs for North Korean export, while an account associated with a Dandong-based individual posted videos using the North Korea hashtag, branding itself as a specialist in North Korean exports.
This company, apparently operational since 2016, is confirmed to produce its own branded products, including KNOKA TV and HCTV. The discovery of KNOKA remote controls in North Korean TV factories suggests that some of these products may have already entered circulation within North Korea.
Another company in Guangdong has been promoting a wide range of products for North Korean export since late last year, including TVs in Panasonic-branded packaging, smartphones, air conditioners, washing machines, and electric scooters.
The scope of promoted items has recently expanded to include vehicles and electric vehicle-related products. Between January and March, a Shandong-based dealer advertised the export of Nissan Navara pickup trucks and Dongfeng vehicles on Douyin. Another account promoted SAIC Maxus electric vehicles (EVs) for North Korean export. Last year, a video purportedly showing ten cargo trucks destined for North Korea was also circulated.
Notably, evidence has emerged of EV chargers produced by Shanghai-based Shanghai Hydrogen Power Technology being installed at a trolleybus factory in Pyongyang. Published photos depict the charging equipment simultaneously powering North Korean electric buses and Chinese sport utility vehicles (SUVs). North Korean media previously reported on this factory’s efforts to produce electric buses, suggesting that Chinese technology may be playing a role in developing Pyongyang’s electric bus infrastructure.
Electric buses are currently operating in Pyongyang’s Munsoo district, alongside rapid charging stations that have been confirmed by satellite imagery. Recent visitors to North Korea have reported an expansion in electric bus operations.
UN Security Council Resolution 2397 prohibits the export of electrical appliances, industrial machinery, and transportation vehicles to North Korea. This case highlights a significant gap in sanctions enforcement, as it demonstrates that Chinese companies are openly promoting trade with North Korea, regardless of whether actual imports are occurring.