The world of animation has been rocked by a shocking revelation that North Korean illustrators and graphic designers may have worked on projects for American animation studios without the companies’ knowledge. Recently discovered documents found on a North Korean computer server suggest that unreleased episodes of popular American cartoons could include work from one of the most closed economies in the world.
American researchers stumbled upon these files, which include drawings for upcoming seasons of shows such as “Invincible” and “Iyanu: Child of Wonder.” The discovery raises questions about the control of supply chains and the potential violation of sanctions prohibiting business with North Korea.
Skybound Entertainment, the producer of “Invincible,” and Lion Forge Entertainment, the producer of “Iyanu,” have both stated that they were unaware of any North Korean or Chinese involvement in their animation projects. However, the investigation into this matter is ongoing, with Skybound Entertainment initiating an investigation to uncover the truth.
The files were discovered by Nick Roy, a Boston cyberspy, who shared them with the Stimson Center, a Washington-based think tank. The documents contain instructions in Chinese translated into Korean, suggesting a complex network of outsourcing that may have involved workers in both China and North Korea.
Experts believe that the main North Korean animation studio, SEK Studio, may be involved in this activity. The studio has a history of contracting with foreign companies and was sanctioned by the US Treasury Department in 2021. North Korea has turned to IT workers abroad to generate foreign currency, raising concerns about potential cybersecurity threats.
The FBI and US government agencies are investigating the matter, with Mandiant reporting its findings to government agencies. North Korea has not commented on the discovery, and the Treasury Department has urged vigilance against attempts to evade sanctions through cybercrime and abuse of contractors.
The animation industry in North Korea has long been a source of income for the regime, with comics and animation playing a prominent role in society. North Korean comics are even sold in flea markets, providing valuable income to the regime.
As the investigation into this shocking revelation continues, the world of animation faces a new challenge in ensuring the transparency and legality of its supply chains. The extent of North Korean involvement in American animation projects raises serious concerns about potential sanctions violations and cybersecurity threats.