North Korean hackers move $30 million via Hyperliquid

North Korean hackers have reportedly moved over $30 million in bitcoin through the decentralized derivatives platform Hyperliquid over a three-week period. Blockchain analytics firm Arkham identified these transactions, which highlight the ongoing use of decentralized finance (DeFi) protocols by illicit actors to move large volumes of funds through pseudonymous channels.

While Hyperliquid faced scrutiny in late 2024 regarding associations with North Korean-linked wallets, the platform previously stated that no security breaches or losses of user funds had occurred. The recent activity underscores the challenges DeFi platforms face in preventing illicit financing due to the lack of traditional identity verification processes.

Simultaneously, the Trump administration is increasing pressure to bring Hyperliquid under United States jurisdiction. This regulatory push is part of a broader strategy to onshore cryptocurrency infrastructure, ensuring that platforms serving American citizens comply with anti-money laundering (AML) and sanctions regulations.