North Korean smartphone censors 'Republic of Korea,' tracks user activity

An analysis of a North Korean smartphone, identified as 'Hae-ryong 701,' has revealed significant restrictions on user activity and information access. The device, manufactured in 2023, offers various functions like voice calls, messaging, and applications for payments and taxi hailing, but its use is heavily controlled.

While the phone appears functional, it prohibits access to the external internet. Although it has Wi-Fi capabilities, these only connect to North Korea's internal intranet, effectively isolating users from global information. This setup ensures that while users can access certain services, their connection to the outside world is strictly monitored and controlled by the authorities.

Text input is subject to censorship. For instance, typing 'Republic of Korea' automatically converts it to '(forbidden word)'. Similarly, inputting Kim Jong Un's name results in the text being automatically bolded. Common expressions like 'namchin' (boyfriend) are also changed to 'namja-chingu' (boyfriend). These measures highlight the regime's efforts to control language and information within the country.

Furthermore, the 'Hae-ryong 701' includes a feature that automatically saves screenshots, storing them in a 'screen history' folder. Users have limited ability to disable this function or delete the saved screens, meaning the device itself logs application usage and viewed content. Such smartphones are not widely available and are reportedly sold for around $250 in North Korea's black market, primarily used by the affluent.