The health of North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un has long been a source of fascination for tabloids and it is a gift that keeps on giving, going by the latest reports.
And in recent photos released by the state media, North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un now looks unrecognizable after dramatic weight loss.
Kim appeared to have a more slender physique in photos, which were captured during a ruling party meeting, which coincided with the 10th anniversary of his succeeding father, Kim Jong Il.
As reported by the Daily Mail on Wednesday, the government officials present spoke about “guiding the struggle” of their “Party and people to the next stage of victory.”
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un commemorated his 10th year in power with a speech that mentioned tractor factories and school uniforms more than nuclear weapons https://t.co/hsMVfqYMYV pic.twitter.com/dcSaaZCiEx
— Reuters (@Reuters) January 1, 2022
This comes as the country experiences economic crises due to coronavirus pandemic lockdowns, natural disasters, and sanctions over its nuclear weapons program.
The outlet also noted that government authorities insisted that the Kim is consuming less food “for the sake of the country” amid major food shortages.
Reuters reported that North Korean citizens were worried over his weight loss as a source said that people’s “hearts” are breaking to see Kim “looking emaciated.”
Kim’s health has been a focus of keen outside attention in recent months because he has appeared noticeably thinner in state media photos and videos.
Rumors that his weight loss was due to illness began earlier this year, but they were renewed in November when a leaner Kim made his first public appearance in almost a month.
That was his longest absence from public view in seven years.
Despite Kim’s thinner appearance, longtime North Korea observers have said Kim has no apparent health problems and his weight loss is probably the result of his efforts to improve his physique.
They noted that he has continued his regular public activities and no unusual developments have been seen in North Korean videos.
Last year, North Korea was hit by heavy flooding, destroying crucial harvests and displacing hundreds of families. Droughts and subsequent flooding have also harmed crops this year.
It isn’t transparent whether the country’s severe food shortages will play a role in any choices made at this week’s meeting conference, which could last for days.
Sources: Waynedupree, Westernjournal, Theguardian, Dailymail, Reuters
dan