The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea) has a long tradition of fishing, with its industry centered along the country’s extensive eastern and western coastlines bordering the Sea of Japan (East Sea) and the Yellow Sea. Historically, fishing has been a vital source of protein and employment, with government-run collectives dominating the sector. The top fish catches include anchovy, cod, mackerel, sardine, and squid, with squid being particularly significant both for domestic consumption and export. North Korea’s fishing industry has faced challenges in recent decades, including outdated equipment, fuel shortages, and international sanctions, but it remains an important part of the national economy and food supply. Despite these difficulties, the country continues to report substantial marine harvests, especially of pelagic species, and has a history of exporting seafood to neighboring countries, notably China.
| Rank | Fish Species | Metric Tons |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Marine fishes nei | 115,640 |
| 2 | Alaska pollock(=Walleye poll.) | 60,470 |
| 3 | Marine crustaceans nei | 15,915 |
| 4 | Various squids nei | 9,550 |
| 5 | Freshwater fishes nei | 5,200 |
| 6 | Flatfishes nei | 4,245 |
| 7 | Okhotsk atka mackerel | 3,185 |
| 8 | Sea urchins nei | 115 |
Data from FAO. 2025. Global Capture Production. In: Fisheries and Aquaculture.