Why Samsung's billionaire chief is headed to North Korea
Summary
The spokesman pointed out that the leaders of South Korean conglomerates had previously joined presidential delegations to North Korea in 2000 and 2007. But doing business in North Korea comes with a lot of risks, most notably heavy US and international sanctions on Pyongyang that companies would have to navigate — unless the restrictions are lifted. Given North Koreas economic plight, the "chances are low" that this weeks trip will lead to business opportunities for Samsung or the other South Korean companies, said Kim, the Daiwa analyst. Foreign companies that have ventured into North Korea previously have often run into difficulties dealing with the ruling regime, including losing control of assets. But such goods are often available on the black market, where Samsung is reportedly one of the most popular smartphone brands among savvy North Korean buyers.