North Korean state media released photos of Kim Jong Un shortly after rumours of his death started spreading online Kim Jong Un has appeared in North Korean state media looking remarkably healthy for a man rumoured to have died from a brain haemorrhage. Photographs published by state newspaper Rodong Sinmun show the 42-year-old dictator touring what the paper said was a clothing and footwear exhibition with his daughter.
The images emerged hours after a Chinese dissident who lives in the US claimed, without evidence, that Kim had been taken to a hospital in Beijing in a coma and had died. For those who watch North Korea closely, this kind of rumour has become almost routine. In one of the world's most secretive states, facts are often difficult to verify, creating fertile ground for speculation.
This latest claim originated with Wanjun Xie, who identifies himself as chairman of the Chinese Democratic Party, a group banned by Chinese authorities. He has previously circulated unverified claims, including speculation about the death of Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Xie alleged that Kim suffered a severe brain haemorrhage and was transferred to Beijing because North Korea lacked the medical facilities to treat him.
He claimed Kim later died and that his body had been secretly returned to North Korea, with the regime concealing his death. Kim is seen examining displays, accompanied by Kim Ju Ae and his usual entourage of officials. While there is no way to know exactly when the images were taken, there are other reasons to doubt the claim. Watch: What do a teenager's clothes tell us about North Korea's future?
There would probably be signs beyond North Korea's borders if there were a sudden collapse in Kim's health.