G7 Leaders Renew Call for Action Against North Korean Crypto Theft

Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) have renewed calls for coordinated action against North Korean cryptocurrency theft and cybercrime, warning that illicit digital activities remain a growing international security concern.

In a statement issued during the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, leaders expressed deep concern over North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programs. They also highlighted allegations that cryptocurrency thefts linked to North Korean actors are helping fund those activities.

The statement did not outline specific measures such as sanctions, exchange screening requirements or actions against crypto-mixing services. However, it echoed similar concerns raised during the 2025 G7 summit in Canada.

Billions Lost to Crypto Hacks

Blockchain analytics firm Chainalysis estimates that North Korean-linked hackers stole at least $2 billion worth of cryptocurrency in 2025, bringing the total amount attributed to DPRK-affiliated groups to approximately $6.75 billion.

Recent incidents linked to suspected North Korean actors include the $285 million Drift Protocol exploit in April and the $36 million Humanity Protocol breach in June.

North Korea Rejects Allegations

Cybersecurity firm CrowdStrike recently described North Korean groups as the most significant threat to crypto users by value stolen. North Korea has denied the accusations, calling claims of cybercrime involvement politically motivated and false.