North Korea’s Unified Command 82, tasked with policing anti-socialist behavior, has launched an internal investigation into its own currency stabilization efforts. On Oct. 20, the agency ordered all regional branches to root out interference with the campaign while tightening training and restrictions.
The probe comes after top officials discovered that some Unified Command 82 members were undermining currency controls through corruption. Members must now attend self-criticism sessions to address how their misconduct has enabled illegal currency trading.
A document obtained by Daily NK reveals the timeline of the currency campaign. In March, the government issued two directives: Cabinet Administrative Directive No. 1 aimed to stabilize exchange rates to boost the economy, while Joint Instruction No. 10 ordered its implementation. By April 5, authorities had completely banned unauthorized currency trading.
The government is attempting to force citizens to use official exchange locations like banks and currency centers, which follow state-mandated rates. However, these official rates are far below market value. As a result, North Koreans continue to use private money changers who offer better rates for U.S. dollars and Chinese yuan, despite increasing crackdowns.
The internal probe was triggered when it became clear that Unified Command 82 officials were protecting illegal money changers instead of arresting them.
According to a South Pyongan province-based source recently, one case involved an official who conducted multiple illegal transactions worth tens of millions of won with a money changer using government funds. In response, all officials in Unified Command 82, their families, and associates have been ordered to avoid illegal currency trading.
“There’s significant tension within Unified Command 82,” the source added, “as officials caught undermining the exchange rate campaign face severe punishment under this investigation.”
Daily NK works with a network of sources in North Korea, China, and elsewhere. For security reasons, their identities remain anonymous.
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