North Korea's Global Diplomatic Retreat: Multiple Embassies Shut Down

North Korea is reportedly closing multiple embassies around the world, including in Spain, Hong Kong, and several African countries, which could result in nearly 25 percent of Pyongyang's missions closing worldwide. The closures are seen as a sign of the country's struggle to generate revenue overseas due to international sanctions. The move could have significant implications for diplomatic engagement, humanitarian work, and the ability to generate illicit revenue. The South Korean unification ministry stated that the closures reflect the impact of sanctions and North Korea's difficult economic situation. North Korea has formal relations with 159 countries but had 53 diplomatic missions overseas until the recent closures.