North Korea To Host Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Conference

If you’re a crypto enthusiast and adventurer with no plans for April 2019, perhaps you can merge your two passions and attend the first Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Conference to be held in North Korea.

In a press release published on the official website of the country, the Korean friendship association announced that preparations are underway to open Korea´s doors to investors and crypto fans from around the world to visit Pyongyang and share their experiences.

The attendees will be treated to a seven-day tour of the country, which also includes a trip to the Daedonggang Beer Factory.

“International experts in the blockchain and crypto industry will gather for the first time in Pyongyang to share their knowledge and vision, establish connections and discuss business opportunities,” a website promoting the event states.

“The DPRK (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) can be considered the safest country in the world,” it states.

“As long as you have a basic common-sense and respect for the culture and belief of other nations, you’ll be always welcome and enjoy like thousands of friends we’ve been hosting for the past 28 years and engaged in cultural, sports, science or business relations.”

Listed as one of the event’s organisers is Chris Emms, a cryptocurrency expert who has previously advised businesses on blockchain technology and regulatory requirements in the space. His LinkedIn profile also mentions that he is serving as an expert witness for the UK’s All Party Parliamentary Group on Blockchain.

North Korea’s interest in cryptocurrency has been rumoured for several years, as claimed by two Washington-based experts that North Korea is looking to the decentralised technology in order to bypass spine-breaking US sanctions imposed on them.

Pyongyang University of Science and Technology has reportedly invited cryptocurrency experts to lecture students in the past.

“Our teaching is intended to assist the DPRK [Democratic People’s Republic of Korea] by building capacity that enables effective development and benefits for the people of the DPRK,” a spokesperson for the university told US-based North Korean news site NK News in 2017.

“We are acutely aware of sanctions issues and the risks of misuse or misappropriation of resources and know-how and take care to avoid any sensitive or proscribed areas.”

You pay 3300 euros per person as entrance and the package includes flights China – North Korea – China. The host will ensure your, accommodation, transportation, and food. The event begins on April 18, 2019, till April 25, 2019.

A note on the website also warns: No mass printed propaganda material, journalists or any literature that is against the dignity of the country will be permitted.

People from South Korea, Japan and Israel can abstain as they are not allowed. Americans, however “can expect a warm welcome”