Dead or alive? Kim Jong Un puzzles world amid a pandemic

His conspicuous no-show at important event on April 15 raises rumours about his health

An April 12 photo showing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un applauding during a visit to a pursuit assault plane group in Pyongyang.
An April 12 photo showing North Korean leader Kim Jong Un applauding during a visit to a pursuit assault plane group in Pyongyang. PHOTO: REUTERS
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The conspicuous absence of North Korea's enigmatic leader Kim Jong Un from this month's celebrations marking his late grandfather's birth anniversary has fuelled speculation in the media and among pundits about the strongman's health and whereabouts.

It all began last week when CNN, quoting a United States official "with direct knowledge", reported that Washington was monitoring intelligence suggesting that Mr Kim was in grave danger after undergoing surgery.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on April 29, 2020, with the headline Dead or alive? Kim Jong Un puzzles world amid a pandemic. Subscribe