North Korean involvement found in animated content of Prime Video from Amazon and HBO Max
The Washington-based research organization, 38 North, discovered a misconfigured cloud server on a North Korean IP address containing thousands of animation files. Among these files are shots from the popular superhero animated series “Invincible” on Prime Video and “Yanu: Wonder Child” on Max.
North Korean animators apparently became involved in the cartoon creation process through proxy Chinese companies controlled from North Korea. US sanctions prohibit commercial activities with North Korean companies due to human rights abuses and promotion of nuclear weapons program.
Cybersecurity expert Michael Barnhart from Mandiant concluded that the investigation does not provide grounds to believe that the management of streaming services knew anything about collaboration with North Korea. It is likely that the projects were subcontracted without their knowledge, and the contracts were initially established with legitimate Chinese companies.
Amazon has already contacted Skybound, which produced “Invincible”, to clarify the circumstances. Amazon representatives also stated that they indeed know nothing about any North Korean organizations.
HBO has not yet commented on the situation.
