North Korea seeks medicine abroad for Kim Jong Un’s health issues

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has regained weight and is reportedly facing health issues related to obesity, including high blood pressure and diabetes.

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service (NIS) revealed on Monday that North Korean officials are seeking new medications abroad to address these health concerns.

Kim Jong Un’s health issues and family history

Kim Jong Un, 40, known for his heavy drinking and smoking, comes from a family with a history of heart problems. Both his father and grandfather, who ruled North Korea before him, died of heart-related issues. Kim, who stands about 170 centimeters (5 feet, 7 inches) tall, previously lost significant weight in 2021. However, recent state media footage shows that he has regained his former weight of approximately 140 kilograms (308 pounds).

NIS briefing to South Korean lawmakers

During a closed-door briefing, the NIS informed South Korean lawmakers that Kim is now in a high-risk group for heart disease. The agency reported that Kim has shown symptoms of high blood pressure and diabetes since his early 30s, likely exacerbated by his lifestyle choices, including drinking, smoking and stress.

Lawmakers Lee Seong Kweun and Park Sunwon quoted the NIS, stating that North Korean officials have been trying to procure new medications abroad to manage Kim’s suspected health conditions. The NIS, however, has a mixed track record in accurately confirming developments in North Korea due to the country’s secretive nature.

Succession speculations and Kim Ju Ae’s rising profile

Kim’s health is closely monitored by international observers, especially since he has not formally named a successor. This uncertainty raises concerns about the future control of North Korea’s advancing nuclear arsenal. The NIS continues to assess that Kim’s preteen daughter, Kim Ju Ae, is being groomed as his likely successor. However, it remains possible that she could be replaced by one of her siblings, as she has not been officially designated as the heir.

Speculation about Kim Ju Ae, believed to be around 10 or 11 years old, intensified after she began appearing at high-profile public events with her father in late 2022. State media often refer to her as Kim Jong Un’s “most beloved” or “respected” child, highlighting her rising political stature and close relationship with her father. According to the NIS, at least 60% of Kim Ju Ae’s public activities have involved military events alongside Kim Jong Un.