币界网报道：North Korea-linked hackers have reportedly stolen over $2.1 billion in cryptocurrency since 2018, with a significant portion funneled into the country's nuclear weapons program, according to recent cybersecurity reports. The Lazarus Group, a notorious hacking collective tied to Pyongyang, has been identified as the primary actor behind these sophisticated cyberattacks targeting exchanges, DeFi platforms, and individual investors. Analysts note a sharp increase in thefts during 2022-2023, coinciding with heightened geopolitical tensions and stricter international sanctions. The stolen funds are allegedly laundered through complex blockchain transactions involving mixers and cross-chain bridges before being converted to fiat currency. Cybersecurity firms have observed evolving tactics including social engineering, supply chain compromises, and zero-day exploits. The UN Security Council has raised concerns that these illicit crypto proceeds may constitute nearly half of North Korea's foreign currency income. While exchanges have improved security measures, experts warn that decentralized platforms remain particularly vulnerable due to their permissionless nature. International law enforcement agencies are coordinating tracking efforts, but the pseudonymous nature of blockchain transactions presents ongoing challenges. The situation highlights growing tensions between cryptocurrency innovation and national security concerns as state-sponsored hacking becomes increasingly sophisticated.