In Late January, North Korea closes its borders due to the
COVID-19 pandemic.[1]
March
In early March, according to
South Korean media outlet Daily NK, 180 soldiers of the Korean Military had died causing speculation on if the deaths were a result of the
COVID-19 pandemic.[2]
In March, North Korea launches several missile tests.[3]
On April 12, Kim Jong Un was reported by
Daily NK to have undergone cardiovascular surgery.
On April 15, North Korea celebrates
Day of the Sun. Kim Jong Un is missing from the ceremony.
On April 21,
CNN reports U.S. agencies monitoring intelligence from North Korea said Kim's post-surgery state was in "grave danger".[5]
June and July
On June 15, North Korea demolished a South Korean and North Korean
liaison office building located in
Kaesong after tensions between North and South Korea rise.[6]
July 26 – The city of Kaesong is placed under total lockdown after a person is found with suspected
COVID-19 symptoms. This is the first suspected case in the country.[7]
October
On October 10, North Korea unveiled the missile
Hwasong-16.[8]