North Korea is said to be procuring computers through China despite United Nations Security Council sanctions.
On the 2nd, according to NK News, a U.S.-based outlet specializing in North Korea, a Chinese trader based in Guangdong province in southern China disclosed on social media in July that he would send 400 used Dell computers worth about $110,000 (about 162 million won) to North Korea.
In addition, according to the contract the trader disclosed, the warranty period for the used computers sent to North Korea is one year. It also includes a clause that any disputes will be resolved through a North Korean court. He said, "Demand for purchasing used computers and graphics cards from North Korea has increased since last year."
It appears that the use of foreign-made computers has actually increased inside North Korea. In particular, Dell computers have been seen in use at various state institutions in North Korea, including the Central Cadres' School.
North Korea's computer imports are said to run counter to U.N. Security Council Resolution 2397. In 2017, the Security Council banned exports of industrial machinery to North Korea. That is because there is a high possibility that used computers could be diverted for training by sanctioned entities such as the Reconnaissance General Bureau or information agencies under the Ministry of National Defense.
Pyongyang Information Center (PIC), North Korea's software development institution, is on the international community's sanctions list on suspicion of involvement in weapons of mass destruction development.
The Chinese trader told NK News, "North Korea is importing graphics cards on the grounds that they are for gaming."