In July 2006, North Korea successively conducted missile tests which were followed by a declaration of a “quasi-state of war.” However, soldiers were selling seaweed at a market in Chongjin City, North Hamkyung Province.
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An ASIAPRESS reporting partner asked what the price was of the seaweed, but a soldier did not answer the reporter.
Since the state cannot provide soldiers with a sufficient supply of food or goods, they need to earn money by themselves. Senior soldiers have been ordering junior soldiers to sell seaweed at market places.
Related article: [Video Report] N.Korea Regulation Officer at Market
The soldiers, serving under the regime, have been regularly facing food scarcities, which forces them to do business in market places for survival. It has been reported that the situation is no different in 2017.
* Editor’s notes on North Korean reporters
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