DPRK bans WiFi use for foreigners

The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has decided to forbid the use of WiFi networks for all foreigners and those who fail to follow the regulation by Thursday would face a huge fine.

Last week, nearly all foreign embassies, international organizations and other foreigners working in the country received a note from the DPRK government that no WiFi networks are allowed to be used here and the WiFi installment must be dismantled before Sept. 11.

The DPRK also warned that those who violate the regulation would be severely fined if the wireless connection signal is detected in the examinations, but no explanations or reasons were given by the officials.

At present, foreign long-term residents are able to access the Internet following certain procedures. Also, foreigners, including short-term visitors, are permitted to surf the Internet via 3G networks on their mobile phones, with communication services provided by Koryolink, the country's only mobile operator.