N. Korean hackers blamed for record $6.3b Binance cryptocurrency theft: US firm - The Korea Herald
North Korean hackers purportedly stole an estimated $6.36 billion in cryptocurrency from Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange, in what would be the biggest cryptocurrency theft on record.
The theft, reported by US blockchain intelligence firm TRM Labs, occurred across 10 blockchain networks with most funds taken in about 20 minutes. The firm expressed "high confidence" that North Korean hacking group TraderTraitor was responsible, citing transaction analysis and similarities with previous operations.
Preparation and Recovery
According to TRM Labs, the hackers began preparing at least 36 hours in advance, gaining access to systems that authorize cryptocurrency transfers. About $2.7 billion in stolen assets has been frozen through cooperation among crypto companies and blockchain operators.
Ongoing Threat
The hackers still control roughly $2.4 billion in Bitcoin and Ethereum, and TRM Labs warned they may attempt to hide the funds by moving between different networks and platforms. The attack exceeds the $1.5 billion stolen from Bybit in February 2025, also attributed to TraderTraitor.
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation is coordinating with partners to understand the scope of the activity, while President Donald Trump acknowledged law enforcement is pursuing the case. North Korea has previously used networks of nationals abroad and foreign facilitators to launder stolen digital assets.
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