DPRK Publicly Executes Successful Business Couple... 200 Residents Witnessed the Event

[Financial News] It has come to light that in the DPRK, a married couple was executed after their business succeeded and they were accused of becoming arrogant.
On the 18th (local time), the Daily Mail reported that a couple who ran a private business in the DPRK was executed after their business prospered, allegedly becoming arrogant and anti-state.

The executed couple, both in their 50s, operated a private business selling, repairing, and renting electric bicycles, motorcycle parts, and regular bicycles. They were officially registered with the Central Committee of the General Federation of Trade Unions of Korea in Sadong-guyok, Pyongyang.
However, as they made considerable profits from side businesses and became known as 'big players' in the community, some residents grew dissatisfied. Complaints centered on high prices, poor product quality, and the couple’s perceived arrogance.
Authorities arrested the couple in early August and, following a joint interrogation, sentenced them to death in early September. Twenty associates of the couple were also sentenced to deportation or re-education.
DPRK authorities charged them with violating the Law on Rejecting Reactionary Ideology and Culture. They were also accused of collaborating with external organizations to illegally transfer foreign currency and disseminate anti-state messages.
The execution took place outdoors in front of approximately 200 residents. According to a source, 'All market operators, street vendors, and other managers were required to attend, so about 200 people gathered to witness the execution.'
The source added, 'Some parents brought their young children because they had nowhere else to leave them, and even passing middle school students witnessed the event.' Authorities reportedly explained to residents that the execution was intended as an example to prevent economic disorder and educate the public.

The source stated, 'The message was that even if you cooperate with foreigners, there are no exceptions to internal discipline in the DPRK. It was part of an effort to curb private businesses that exceed the limits permitted by the state.' The source continued, 'After this incident, all business operators are now fearful, thinking, "We could be arrested at any time."'
The Daily Mail analyzed that this punishment was a strong warning to sever external ties and reinforce state control over private business. Following the execution, market activity reportedly plummeted for several days. Businesses associated with the executed couple disappeared, and prices for batteries and related parts either soared or became stagnant.
The DPRK has long carried out public executions to instill fear and prevent anti-state behavior. Most executions are by firing squad, and residents are often ordered to attend.
[email protected] Kim Hee-sun Reporter