The United States has imposed sanctions on the Second Academy of Natural Sciences Foreign Affairs Bureau (SANS FAB) and two individuals for their involvement in supporting North Korea's ballistic missile program. The Office of the Spokesperson announced these measures on December 16, 2024.
SANS FAB is identified as a procurement entity that aids North Korea's defense research and design programs. It also supports the U.S.-designated Munitions Industry Department (MID). Representatives from SANS FAB based in China and Russia have collaborated with their counterparts in North Korea to conduct extensive procurement activities related to the country's unlawful ballistic missile program.
"SANS FAB is being designated pursuant to Section 1(a)(ii) of E.O. 13382 for engaging, or attempting to engage, in activities or transactions that have materially contributed to or posed a risk of materially contributing to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction or their means of delivery," stated the spokesperson.
The sanctions also target Rim Ryong Nam and Kim Yon Hui, both nationals of North Korea. They are involved in procuring items applicable to ballistic missiles for use within North Korea's illegal missile program on behalf of MID. Since at least 2018, they have attempted multiple times to supply aluminum powder—a component used in rocket propellant—to North Korea for manufacturing ballistic missiles.
Since 2020, Kim Yon Hui has played a significant role in operating her husband's business in China, focusing on procuring aluminum powder for North Korea's missile initiatives. "Rim Ryong Nam and Kim Yon Hui are being designated pursuant to Section 1(a)(ii) of E.O. 13382 for engaging, or attempting to engage, in activities or transactions that have materially contributed to, or pose a risk of materially contributing to, the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction," according to the announcement.
These actions reflect ongoing efforts by the United States government aimed at curbing support for North Korea’s weapons development programs through international sanctions.
