What is Free North Korea Radio and what does it do?

Free North Korea Radio is a small, non-governmental station in Seoul that broadcasts uncensored foreign news into North Korea, aiming to provide real-time information.

Why have U.S. and South Korean radio broadcasts to North Korea stopped?

Major U.S. broadcasters faced funding cuts and policy changes, while South Korea halted broadcasts to reduce tensions with North Korea.

What are the risks for North Koreans listening to foreign broadcasts?

North Koreans caught listening to unsanctioned foreign radio or TV channels can face up to five years of imprisonment.

Home / War and Conflict / North Korea's Secret Radio Signal Fades as Funding Cuts Hit

North Korea's Secret Radio Signal Fades as Funding Cuts Hit

25 Nov

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Summary

Major US and South Korean broadcasters ceased North Korean broadcasts.
North Koreans face jail for listening to unsanctioned foreign news.
A new app and website offer alternative information to North Koreans abroad.

North Korea's Secret Radio Signal Fades as Funding Cuts Hit

Authoritarian North Korea's access to uncensored foreign news is severely limited as major U.S. and South Korean government-funded radio broadcasters have ceased operations. Lee Si-young, who leads a small non-governmental station broadcasting into North Korea, fears this signals an abandonment of the country's 26 million residents, who risk severe punishment for tuning in. This dramatic reduction, estimated at 85% by 38 North, follows U.S. funding cuts and South Korea's policy to lower animosities.

Two large U.S. broadcasters, Voice of America and Radio Free Asia, halted their Korean-language services after U.S. President Trump signed an executive order targeting perceived liberal bias and wastefulness. South Korea's government, led by President Lee Jae Myung, also stopped cross-border broadcasts, frontline loudspeakers, and banned activist propaganda balloon launches, aiming to ease tensions with Pyongyang. This leaves smaller civil and religious organizations like FNK as the primary conduits for outside information.