ICYMI: While North Korea has been slow to adopt modern tech like 4G, available records on patent registrations by the country’s scientists can shed light on how the Pyongyang leadership organizes and invests in research to drive technological innovation.

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ICYMI: DPRK leader Kim Jong Un sent a message of condolences to his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin over flooding in a southwestern region, the latest in a series of increasingly frequent correspondence between the two leaders in recent years.

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ICYMI: Japan's ambassador to the U.S. emphasized the importance of resolving North Korea's abduction of Japanese citizens as efforts continue to arrange a meeting between the leaders of the two countries. buff.ly/3VTWvyE

ICYMI: Ask a North Korean: What are working hours like in the DPRK?

'The day starts at 6 a.m., and the few breaks that are permitted are strictly limited to mealtimes until it’s time to go to bed at 10 p.m.,' writes DPRK defector Joshua Kim. buff.ly/3UfggQ0

ICYMI: Kim Jong Un warned of 'full mobilization' to 'completely annihilate' the country’s enemies if provoked, as shown by his inspection of a Seoul replica and U.S.-ROK airbase maps, sending a message to newly elected South Korean lawmakers. buff.ly/43Y6y7N

ICYMI: North Korea appears to have started constructing a long-planned tidal power station, according to NK Pro analysis of satellite imagery, weeks after Kim Jong Un said such a project could help solve “power shortages.” buff.ly/443kvS3

ICYMI: North Korea's state TV not only showcases patriotic content and leadership documentaries but also frequently airs international sports like Premier League soccer.

But how does DPRK access these broadcasts, often without apparent rights?

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NEW: The U.N. General Assembly convened to discuss Russia’s veto of a resolution to extend the mandate of the expert panel monitoring DPRK sanctions, with several countries proposing the assembly play a greater role in maintaining pressure on Pyongyang.

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NEW: A new survey has ranked North Korea as the seventh greatest cybercrime threat globally, drawing attention to the country’s aptitude for carrying out cyberattacks and stealing data.

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NEW: At least 50 members of pro-North Korea friendship groups from around the world have gathered in Pyongyang, according to state media, in what one expert said is a “positive sign” the DPRK may be relaxing its strict border policies.

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NEW: The U.S., South Korea and Japan held a joint maritime drill this week on countering submarine-launched ballistic missiles and other “underwater threats” from North Korea, the ROK navy announced on Friday, with a U.S. aircraft carrier taking part. buff.ly/4auYA8B

ICYMI: Kim Jong Un inspected the second stage of the Hwasong Street project — part of a five-year plan started in 2021 to build 50,000 homes in Pyongyang by early 2026 — as it nears completion, ahead of the ruling party's April 15 deadline for its opening. buff.ly/4aSnxe0

ANALYSIS: While the DP majority appears set to frustrate many of ROK president's policy priorities, Yoon's hardline approach to North Korea or his efforts to strengthen ties with the U.S. and Japan is unlikely to change. buff.ly/3VPgajo

NEW: North Korea wants to send as many citizens as possible to study at Russian universities, the DPRK’s education minister reportedly said this week, amid concerns that such academic exchange is a ploy to send more workers to the country.

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High-profile defector-lawmaker Tae Yong-ho lost his seat in parliament in South Korea’s general election on Wednesday, in a major setback to the former North Korean diplomat’s political career. buff.ly/4aOO0t5

ANALYSIS: Following North Korea's recent dismissal of speculations about a summit with Japan, a deeper look suggests that the diplomatic door many not be fully closed.

Could Japan become a key intermediary despite ongoing abduction tensions? buff.ly/3UbXgSy