It was modeled after its Soviet equivalent, the All-Union Society for Cultural Relations with Foreign Countries.

[3] It seeks hard currency from tourism, cultural diplomacy, and foreign direct investment.

The staff of the committee leads a relatively cosmopolitan life with access to foreign travel, people, and goods.

Its personnel includes higher-ups in the ruling Workers' Party of Korea and the state security apparatus.

The staff arrange business deals with foreigners to evade international trade restrictions and receive a share of the proceeds.