Massive Cryptocurrency Theft by North Korean Hackers in 2025

A Chainalysis report reveals that North Korean hackers stole over $2.17 billion in cryptocurrencies in 2025, including $1.5 billion in Ethereum from the Bybit exchange.

This unprecedented cyberattack highlights North Korea’s reliance on crypto hacks, stressing the need for stronger global security measures against escalating threats.

Record $2.17 Billion Stolen by North Korean Hackers

North Korean hackers notably targeted the Bybit platform, employing advanced social engineering tactics to execute the largest cryptocurrency theft in history, stealing nearly $1.5 billion in Ethereum. The Lazarus Group is implicated, utilizing tools like fake IT personas to infiltrate exchanges.

The U.S. FBI attributes the Bybit hack to North Korean operatives, emphasizing the escalating sophistication of their tactics. The impact extends to South Korea’s Upbit platform, which lost $37 million to similar tactics.

North Korea’s sophistication and efficacy in laundering the proceeds from these incidents is continuing to improve. The industry needs to continue ensuring that they have better security controls. — Andrew Fierman, Head of National Security Intelligence, Chainalysis, Chainalysis

North Korea’s Global Cyber Impact and Market Reactions

Did you know? Over the past decade, North Korean hacks have resulted in losses exceeding $6.75 billion, significantly funding their foreign operations and military programs.

CoinMarketCap data shows Ethereum (ETH) trading at $3,007.82, with a market cap of 363.03 billion. The price reflects a 2.30% increase over 24 hours, with a downturn of -27.67% over 90 days.

The Coincu research team anticipates further regulatory scrutiny and security enhancements across exchanges. Investors may witness emphasized controls and a push for industry-wide cooperation to combat these growing threats.