NK Leader Suffering From Kidney Failure, Depression
By Kim Sue-young
Staff Reporter
North Korean leader Kim Jong-il is still suffering from chronic conditions, including kidney failure, even though he recovered from a stroke that caused him to collapse in 2008, according to unconfirmed media reports.
The Ministry of Unification here, however, said the leader appears to be in good health.
Earlier, the Japanese daily Sankei Shimbun reported that the 68-year-old dictator was receiving kidney dialysis once every two to three days.
Additionally, he is believed to be suffering from depression as an aftereffect of the stroke as well as complications from diabetes.
He had been rumored to have suffered a stroke in 2008 after he failed to show up at a massive parade marking the 60th anniversary of the country's foundation.
Rumors related to his health increased when he appeared publicly afterward with a slimmer body and a gaunt face.
In recent public appearances, Kim seemed to have gained some weight and have a healthier complexion. But some North Korea watchers speculate that Kim has started to smoke and drink again, which is impairing his health.
Despite his condition being kept a tightly-guarded secret, Kim is believed to depend on rare items for his well-being.
The Associated Press quoted an anonymous South Korean intelligence expert as saying that North Korean officials have traveled to Beijing to buy expensive, "hard-to-find remedies" such as a bears' gall bladders, a rhinoceros' horn and musk.
His reported unstable health is likely to raise continuous speculations regarding the succession in North Korea's leadership.
Kim's third and youngest son, Jong-un, has been considered the heir apparent.
Some reports claimed that North Korean authorities have prohibited people from naming children Jong-un and ordered people with the name to use another one.
The move is construed as an initial step to idolize the successor and lay the foundation of loyalty for the next leader.