South Korea's National Intelligence Service (NIS) has reportedly dismissed rumours that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has died, telling lawmakers that social media claims are untrue. The assessment was delivered during a closed-door meeting with ruling and opposition lawmakers on the National Assembly Intelligence Committee on Friday.
Rumours Stem from Unverified Social Media Post
The speculation, which spread across social media in South Korea and beyond, appears to have originated from an unverified post alleging Kim had suffered a serious brain haemorrhage and slipped into a coma. The claims, attributed to US-based Chinese dissident Wanjun Xie, suggested Kim had been taken to Peking Union Medical College Hospital in Beijing for treatment before passing away.
It was also claimed that Kim's body had been covertly returned to North Korea and that his death was being hidden. However, no evidence was provided to support any of the allegations.
NIS Notes No Health Abnormalities
The NIS has previously stated that Kim is considered at high risk of cardiovascular disease due to his weight, estimated at approximately 140kg. Yet intelligence officials said last month there were no signs of health abnormalities, pointing to Kim's ability to move without difficulty.
The agency highlighted an occasion when he ran up stairs during an inspection of a destroyer as evidence of his mobility. Officials also confirmed that Kim's health was being closely monitored by dedicated medical personnel.
Briefing Covers Kim Yo-jong Appearance
The briefing also reportedly touched on Kim's sister, Kim Yo-jong, after she visited a fortification construction site on North Korea's southern border on October 20 alongside Pak Jong-chon, an adviser to the country's Ministry of National Defence. The NIS is understood to have stated that her appearance should not be interpreted as any shift in her standing.
There was reportedly no evaluation at the meeting regarding potential talks between North Korea and the United States, or on arrangements for a possible visit by Kim Jong-un to China.
North Korean state media did not directly address the rumours, but later reported that Kim had attended a garment and footwear exhibition in Pyongyang. Images released by state media showed the leader viewing the exhibition with his daughter, Kim Ju-ae. South Korean diplomatic and security officials had also stated earlier this week that they had heard nothing to corroborate the claims.
The NIS is scheduled to face a parliamentary audit by the National Assembly Intelligence Committee on October 29, when North Korean developments and other security matters are expected to be examined in greater detail.
