Scientific research trends of North Korea from 1976 to 2024: a Scopus-based bibliometric study

Abstract

Purpose: This study presents a bibliometric analysis of research articles authored by North Korean researchers and indexed in Scopus between 1976 and 2024. By incorporating recent data, it updates previous findings and examines how developments such as COVID-19 border closures have affected domestic research activity and international collaboration. Methods: Data were collected on June 15, 2025, using refined Scopus search parameters that addressed earlier limitations and improved the identification of records lacking country information. After data cleaning, the final dataset comprised 1,344 domestic articles and 1,210 internationally co-authored articles. These were analyzed by publication volume and institutional affiliation. Results: The study compares trends before and after 2020, distinguishing between domestic and international research. It evaluates North Korea’s internal research capacity based on the number of contributing domestic authors and explores interinstitutional collaboration within the country. Major international partners were identified by analyzing co-author affiliations, with emphasis on China’s leading role. Additionally, network analysis was conducted to identify key countries involved in international collaboration and to visualize the centrality of cooperative institutions. Conclusion: The findings reveal a marked increase in domestic publications in recent years, suggesting a shift toward greater self-reliance in response to external constraints such as the COVID-19 pandemic and international sanctions. The results also indicate steady enhancement of North Korea’s internal research capacity. Despite global isolation, international collaboration has remained relatively stable, partially sustained by long-standing partnerships with Chinese institutions. Based on these trends, continued growth in domestic research output and international engagement is anticipated.