N. Korea exports 1.5 mln tons of coal in 2025 despite sanctions: lawmaker

North Korea managed to export approximately 1.5 million tons of coal in 2025, according to a South Korean lawmaker. This activity reportedly occurred despite international sanctions that are intended to restrict Pyongyang's trade. The lawmaker's statement suggests that these illicit coal shipments represent a significant source of revenue for the isolated nation.

This situation highlights the ongoing challenges in enforcing international sanctions against North Korea and its continued ability to circumvent economic restrictions.