Japanese Government on Reports of 'Kim Jong-un's Health Issues': "No Comment, Gathering Information"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Regarding CNN's report that the United States is monitoring information that North Korean State Affairs Commission Chairman Kim Jong-un is in critical condition after surgery, the Japanese government stated on the 21st that it is collecting information while avoiding specific comments.

According to NHK, Yoshihide Suga, Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan, said at a regular briefing that day about the related report, "We are aware that the report has come out. Japan is very interested in North Korea's movements and usually tries to collect and analyze information," adding, "However, I would like to refrain from commenting on each and every detail." He continued, "We want to continue closely cooperating with the United States and others while collecting and analyzing related information."

Taro Kono, Japan's Defense Minister, also said, "There are various reports and information, but it is not the level to comment on now," adding, "We are always maintaining strong vigilance over North Korea." NHK also reported that a Foreign Ministry official said, "We are aware of the report," and "Although the facts have not been confirmed, we are monitoring the situation and collecting information together with related countries such as the United States and South Korea."

Earlier, CNN reported, citing a U.S. official directly aware of the matter, that the U.S. government is monitoring information that Chairman Kim is in serious danger after undergoing surgery. The last time Chairman Kim appeared in public was on the 11th, and health concerns arose as he did not appear during the visit to the Kumsusan Sun Palace on the 15th, the Day of the Sun (Kim Il-sung's birthday).

The North Korea-specialized media Daily NK also reported on the same day, citing local sources, that Chairman Kim underwent cardiovascular procedures on the 12th at Hyangsan Clinic, a private hospital for the Kim family located in the Myohyangsan area of North Pyongan Province, and is receiving treatment while staying at a nearby villa.

However, the Blue House stated that it could not confirm the related information and said, "No unusual movements have been identified inside North Korea so far." The Ministry of Unification also responded that no unusual movements have been detected regarding such reports and that they are "monitoring the related matters." The National Intelligence Service also said in an official statement, "We are sharing information between South Korea and the United States and monitoring the related matters."