South Korea Comments on Kim Jong-un’s Health
The South Korean government is playing down reports of suspicious activity in the neighbouring country of North Korea, following reports that Kim Jong-un is in “grave danger” after undergoing heart surgery.
Earlier this month, Kim – who has been the Supreme Leader of North Korea since 2011 – was notably absent from an event commemorating the birth of his grandfather, Kim Il Sung.
This was because he reportedly underwent a cardiovascular system procedure on 12 April – three days before the event – at a hospital in Hyangsan county.
The 36-year-old leader’s health has been deteriorating due to obesity, heavy smoking and overworking. He is now recovering at the Mount Kumgang resort in Kangwon province.
Although US media outlets reported that Kim’s life has become endangered following the surgery, the South Korean government downplayed their claims in a statement.
They said: “We have no information to confirm regarding rumours about Chairman Kim Jong-un’s health issue that have been reported by some media outlets. Also, no unusual developments have been detected inside North Korea.”
Should Kim become incapacitated, his sister, Kim Yo-jong, is expected to succeed him as Supreme Leader.
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