A report from Yonhap describes an assessment by South Korea’s state intelligence service concerning the health of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. The agency reportedly used artificial intelligence to analyze publicly available images and video footage in order to form an impression of the leader’s physical condition.
According to a member of the ruling party in the National Assembly, the intelligence analysis of Kim Jong-un’s appearance during a public address suggested signs of fatigue. The analysis indicated a weight range between 140 and 150 kilograms, based on visual data in the footage. The speaker noted that civil power representatives referenced intelligence material in making these claims.
It was also suggested that Kim Jong-un may be dealing with more than just weight concerns. The report mentioned possible insomnia and raised questions about skin health, including potential conditions such as allergies. The accompanying commentary described a pattern of symptoms that supporters and analysts attribute to stress and related health factors.
Specifically, the source pointed to recurring marks on Kim Jong-un’s arms since late last year, describing scratches and bruises that could be linked to a reaction involving allergies and dermatitis triggered by stress. The remarks were attributed to a member of parliament aligned with the ruling faction.
In related remarks, Kim Yo-jong, who holds a senior position within the Workers’ Party of Korea and is Kim Jong-un’s sister, referenced a period when members of the North Korean leadership faced a fever outbreak. The statements conveyed concern about the seriousness of the illness within the leadership circle and hinted at broader health challenges facing senior officials in North Korea.