Following the transfer of sovereignty of Hong Kong to China, North Korea was able to open a Consulate-General in February 2000 by virtue of its diplomatic relations with Beijing, having previously not been allowed to establish a trade mission during British rule.

In October 2023, North Korean officials informed the Chinese the Consulate General would be closed as part of broad cutbacks in its diplomatic missions.

[4] The defector eventually left for South Korea around the last week of September 2016 after staying about 80 days in Hong Kong.

[6] Hong Kong and North Korea cooperate in several international organisations, with a focus on social and cultural issues.

Afterward, Ng posted on his Facebook page stating that he "anticipated exchanges in cultural and educational affairs will be strengthened in the future."