As Russian President Vladimir Putin makes his first trip to North Korea since 2000, concerns have emerged about the health of Kim Jong Un following his appearance during their meeting. Experts discuss the implications of Kim's frail appearance and his long-standing health issues amidst growing speculation about his well-being.
Russian President Vladimir Putin's historic visit to North Korea has raised concerns about the health of Kim Jong Un. The North Korean leader appeared visibly out of breath and labored during the meeting, leading to speculation about the severity of his condition.
Kim Jong Un's Weight Loss and Health Concerns Raise Speculation Amid Putin's North Korea Visit
Former CIA North Korea analyst Sue Mi Terry described Kim as looking "not too good" based on footage of the meeting. Professor Sung-Yoon Lee, a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and author, concurred with Terry's assessment.
Lee noted that Kim has a history of health issues, including obesity, heart disease, and gout. Kim's father and grandfather both died from heart attacks, raising concerns about his vulnerability to similar health risks.
Kim Jong Un's Weight Loss and Health Concerns Raise Speculation Amid Putin's North Korea Visit
Kim's health is of critical importance to Putin, who has increasingly relied on weapons from North Korea in the war against Ukraine. Reports suggest that North Korea may have provided Russia with millions of artillery shells.
Lee argues that Kim's health affects his leverage with Putin, who likely sees a strategic partnership with North Korea as a key part of his geopolitical agenda. The display of unity between the two leaders is meant to undermine international condemnation and sanctions against both countries.
Kim Jong Un's Weight Loss and Health Concerns Raise Speculation Amid Putin's North Korea Visit
Kim's weight has fluctuated significantly over the years. In 2016, South Korea's intelligence service reported that Kim had gained 90 pounds following his father's death due to excessive eating and drinking.
In 2014, Kim reportedly suffered from gout, leading to a period of isolation from public view. Despite his frail appearance, Lee cautions that Kim has long access to the best healthcare available and may still enjoy a relatively long life.
Kim Jong Un's Weight Loss and Health Concerns Raise Speculation Amid Putin's North Korea Visit
Kim's health remains a subject of speculation and concern. However, Lee emphasizes that he has survived several health challenges in the past and may continue to do so.
The long-term implications of Kim's health for the future of the Kim dynasty are uncertain. Should Kim become incapacitated or die, his sister, Kim Yo Jong, is considered a potential successor.
Kim Jong Un's Weight Loss and Health Concerns Raise Speculation Amid Putin's North Korea Visit
Ultimately, the true extent of Kim's health issues remains a closely guarded secret in North Korea. Until more information becomes available, his health will continue to be a source of speculation and a factor in the geopolitical calculus of the region.
