The Problem of Economic Data Sources on the DPRK

It is widely acknowledged that North Korea has attracted limited interest among economists, primarily due to the scarcity of reliable data available for comprehensive analysis. The country's economy remains underexplored, as the statistical indicators that typically serve as the foundation for rigorous socio-economic assessments are largely inaccessible. The challenge is not only the questionable reliability of existing data but also the broader issue of its availability. Nevertheless, as demand for insights into North Korea's economic conditions increases, various organizations worldwide have begun publishing independent estimates. However, considering the difficulties associated with obtaining reliable statistics even in transparent, well-documented economies, the accuracy of data concerning a state that treats even minimal economic information as a matter of national security remains highly uncertain. This article seeks to examine the historical context surrounding the existence and accessibility of statistical data on North Korea while analyzing the sources currently available. Employing historical, comparative, and statistical methodologies, the study critically evaluates the reliability and implications of existing economic assessments.