North Korea announces international cryptocurrency and blockchain conference

North Korea has announced plans to hold an international blockchain and cryptocurrency conference, marking the first time industry experts have been publicly invited to the reclusive state.

The Pyongyang Blockchain and Cryptocurrency Conference will take place in the nation's capital in April 2019 and attendees will be treated to a seven-day tour of the country.

For €3,300 (£2,900), conference delegates will be receive an all-inclusive stay in North Korea, together with activities like skating, bowling, shooting and shopping.

The seventh day of the cryptocurrency conference schedule 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 conference is not open to citizens of Israel, Japan or South Korea, while journalists are also not allowed to attend. A note on the website also warns: "Any mass printed propaganda or digital/printed material against the dignity of the Republic is not allowed."

In a FAQ section of the website, organisers address any safety concerns potential attendees may have.

"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, with two Washington-based experts claiming earlier this year that the regime is looking to the decentralised technology in order to bypass crippling sanctions imposed by the US.

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.”