In 2026, North Korea will be blamed for 76% of global crypto hacks! That is, $577 million stolen in 4 months. Between technical evidence and official denials, this scandal reveals a cyber war with explosive geopolitical issues.
In brief
- 76% of global crypto hacks in 2026 attributed to North Korea, for $577 million stolen.
- Technical evidence (TRM Labs, UN) vs official denials from Pyongyang, which speaks of political slander.
- Bitcoin (BTC): the most targeted crypto, with 63% of funds diverted in 2026.
North Korea denies role in crypto hacks
The data from TRM Labs and the UN is overwhelming. In 2026, 76% of global crypto losses (or $577 million) would be linked to North Korean actors. Two major attacks in April — KelpDAO ($292M) and Drift Protocol ($285M) — illustrate this trend, attributed to the Lazarus group and its TraderTraitor subgroup. However, Pyongyang denies it outright. Via its KCNA agency, the regime describes these accusations as absurd slander and a political tool of the United States.
According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, these allegations would serve to justify sanctions and demonize the country. Classic rhetoric, as blockchain evidence (IP addresses, laundering methods) accumulates. Since 2017, more than $6 billion in crypto has reportedly been misappropriated, partly funding North Korea's nuclear programs.
Bitcoin (BTC): the crypto most targeted by North Korean hackers
Bitcoin (BTC) remains the preferred crypto of North Korean cybercriminals. According to Chainalysis, 63% of funds stolen in 2026 were in BTC, due to its high liquidity and ease of conversion to fiat currencies. The attacks against KelpDAO and Drift Protocol notably targeted BTC wallets, with rapid transfers to mixers like Tornado Cash to cover their tracks.
US sanctions are now targeting complicit platforms, as shown by the freezing of $800 million linked to North Korean IT worker schemes in 2024. Despite this, BTC remains the most affected crypto, with a 10% increase in attacks in 2026 compared to 2025. Experts recommend that investors secure their assets via cold storage wallets and conduct background checks on exchanges before any deposit.
Between overwhelming evidence and categorical denials, the debate on North Korea's responsibility is divisive. One thing is certain, crypto thefts threaten confidence in the sector. And you, would you be ready to invest in such a risky market?
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