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Claims Kim Jong-un in coma as some powers passed on to his sister Kim Yo-jong

The West Australian
Rumours are swirling that North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un is in a coma after the claims were reported in South Korean media.
Camera IconRumours are swirling that North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un is in a coma after the claims were reported in South Korean media. Credit: 朝鮮通信社/AP

Rumours are swirling that North Korean dictator Kim Jong-un is in a coma after the claims were reported in South Korean media.

Chang Song-min, a former aide to South Korea’s late president Kim Dae-jung, told South Korean media that he understands the leader is in a comatose state, “but his life has not ended”.

The reports come just days after North Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) announced Mr Kim would gradually transfer some powers to Ms Kim “to ease stress,” but that the dictator would still “exert absolute power”.

The former aide claims Kim Yo-jong is now preparing to take over as the state’s new supreme leader.

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The comments come as North Korea reportedly handed over some power to John-un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, 33.
Camera IconThe comments come as North Korea reportedly handed over some power to John-un’s sister, Kim Yo-jong, 33. Credit: JORGE SILVA / POOL/EPA

“A complete succession structure has not been formed, so Kim Yo-jong is being brought to the fore as the vacuum cannot be maintained for a prolonged period,” Song-min said.

Speculation about Kim’s health has been rampant since earlier this year after the leader, who has kept a gruelling schedule filled with public appearances, disappeared from the public eye without an official explanation.

Kim Yo Jong gained widespread recognition ahead of her brother’s 2019 summit with President Trump in Vietnam.
Camera IconKim Yo Jong gained widespread recognition ahead of her brother’s 2019 summit with President Trump in Vietnam. Credit: AP

However, the rumours were quashed after North Korea released vision of Kim attending the opening of a fertiliser factory in May. But North Korea watchers said it was impossible to verify the actual date of the visit.

Mr Kim, who has been in power since 2011 after the death of his father, sacked his premier the week before last after an evaluation of the cabinet’s implementation of economic policies.

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