North Korean officials seek medicines for leader’s obesity-related health issues, South Korea says
FILE - In this pool photograph distributed by the Russian state agency Sputnik, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attends a reception for Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Mongnangwan Reception House in Pyongyang on June 19, 2024. (Credit: VLADIM
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has regained weight and is dealing with obesity-related health problems, prompting health officials to seek new medicines abroad to treat him, a South Korean spy agency told lawmakers on Monday.
Some of the health issues that are plaguing Kim include high blood pressure and diabetes.
The 40-year-old leader is known for his heavy drinking and smoking. Kim comes from a family with a history of heart problems and both his father and grandfather died of heart issues.
Kim had appeared to lose some weight back in 2021 after a change in diet, according to some observers, but recent state media footage show he has regained the weight.
On Monday, the National Intelligence Service, South Korea’s main spy agency, told lawmakers in a closed-door briefing that Kim is estimated to weigh about 140 kilograms (308 pounds) again and belongs to a high-risk group for heart disease, according to Lee Seong Kweun, one of the lawmakers.
Lee said the NIS told lawmakers that Kim has shown symptoms of high blood pressure and diabetes since his early 30s. Another lawmaker, Park Sunwon, said the NIS believes Kim’s obesity is linked to his drinking, smoking and stress.
Lee and Park quoted the NIS as saying it obtained intelligence that North Korean officials have been trying to get new medicines abroad for Kim's suspected high blood pressure and diabetes.
Kim’s health is of particular interest outside of North Korea since he hasn’t formally chosen a successor to take over should he become incapacitated.
In its briefing on Monday, the NIS speculated that Kim’s daughter, Kim Ju Ae, 10, is likely bolstering her status as her father’s heir.
State media called her Kim Jong Un's "most beloved" or "respected" child and churned out footage and photos proving her rising political standing and closeness with her father.
The NIS told lawmakers that at least 60% of Kim Ju Ae's public activities have involved attending military events with her father.
The Associated Press contributed to this report. This story was reported from Los Angeles.