North Korea is nothing like the 1850s. The elites have access to all the technology you and I have, as well as all the latest textbooks and scientific publications, mainly via imports from China. Even people outside the power structure are exposed to computers in school and many can buy computers and radios on the black market.
North Korea, like South Korea and many of its neighbors a have tradition of putting a lot of weight on basic education and kids there compete for top grades and positions in special advanced schools.
As to the cyber warfare divisions. According to reports, kids as young as 12 who show aptitude for mathematics are selected for rigorous advanced computer schools. Those that pass go on to study computer science at special universities. The top graduates each year then get selected for a 5 year intense military training course, which includes studies in Russia or China. Getting selected for the cyber warfare unit is apparently one of the most prestigious military postings in NK and comes with lots of perks, so the competition to get in is fierce.
North Korea, like South Korea and many of its neighbors a have tradition of putting a lot of weight on basic education and kids there compete for top grades and positions in special advanced schools.
As to the cyber warfare divisions. According to reports, kids as young as 12 who show aptitude for mathematics are selected for rigorous advanced computer schools. Those that pass go on to study computer science at special universities. The top graduates each year then get selected for a 5 year intense military training course, which includes studies in Russia or China. Getting selected for the cyber warfare unit is apparently one of the most prestigious military postings in NK and comes with lots of perks, so the competition to get in is fierce.