Kim Jong-un 'may be suffering with gout' as state confirms North Korean leader is ill
State says Supreme Leader is 'suffering discomfort'
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.North Korea has publicly acknowledged Kim Jong-un has a medical problem for the first time, as reports emerged suggesting the Supreme Leader may be suffering from gout.
Kim has not made a public appearance since 3 September where he attended a concert alongside his wife.
His absence has prompted speculation over his health, particularly as the 31-year-old was seen walking with a limp at an event with key officials in July and in a pre-recorded documentary broadcast by state media on Thursday.
Meanwhile, photos released by the notoriously secretive DPRK suggest Kim has ballooned in size since coming to power after his father died of a heart attack in 2011 – despite many citizens in North Korea facing starvation.
Michael Madden, an expert on the North Korean leadership and contributor to the 38 North website said: "Based on his gait, it appears he has gout - something (due to) diet and genetic predisposition that has affected other members of the Kim family.”
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments