The History and Evolution of North Korea’s Space Capabilities

The importance of outer space is growing in many countries, both economically and militarily, and North Korea is no exception. Since its first attempt to launch a satellite in 1998, North Korea has carried out nine more launches, successfully putting its first military reconnaissance satellite into orbit in November 2023. North Korea has often emphasized the peaceful use of outer space, but the United Nations has seen these launches as a cover for the development of intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs) and has, in response, imposed sanctions on Pyongyang. North Korea has been openly testing ICBMs since 2017, and there is no longer any reason to disguise the launch of an ICBM as the launch of a satellite.

This report outlines the history of North Korea’s space program, the country’s space capabilities and counterspace capabilities, and its relationships with Russia, China, and Iran. It includes a discussion of the objectives of North Korea’s space launches and satellite operations. It also discusses North Korea's future space development and the potential threat it poses to the international community. 

This report is made possible by general support to CSIS. No direct sponsorship contributed to this report.