[Asia Economy Reporter Jeong Hyunjin] Tae Yong-ho, a defector and former North Korean embassy official in the UK who was elected as a member of the Future United Party, stated that most of the recent rumors circulating about North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un's health issues are inaccurate. However, he asserted, "One thing is clear: Kim is unable to stand up or walk properly on his own."
In an interview with CNN on the 27th (local time), Tae said, "I cannot be certain whether Kim actually underwent surgery," but made the above statement. While he did not provide concrete evidence to support his claims about Kim's health condition, he explained that Kim's absence from the Solar Day event on the 15th would appear very strange to the North Korean people.
However, Tae noted that all information related to Kim is shrouded in secrecy, so most of the recent rumors seem inaccurate or difficult to verify. He said, "The only people who can confirm Kim's exact condition are his wife, sister, or close aides," adding, "I do not believe the rumors about where Kim is currently located or what kind of surgery he underwent are based on facts."
Tae also pointed out that the news of former leader Kim Jong-il's death was kept secret for two days, and even the North Korean foreign minister at the time did not receive the information until an hour before the official announcement.
Regarding recent satellite images showing a train presumed to be Kim's private train stopped at Wonsan Station, Tae claimed that during his diplomatic career, the North Korean government was aware that Kim's train was being detected by satellites and frequently moved the train to different locations. He suggested that the train currently visible might be part of a deception operation.
He further explained that as part of this strategy, electric lights are also used. Since electricity supply is limited in North Korea, places illuminated after dark typically indicate locations where high-ranking officials like Kim or military officers are present. To prevent Kim's location from being detected by U.S. satellites, North Korean authorities reportedly turn on lights in empty offices or guest houses at night as a tactical measure. Tae added, "The Kim Jong-un regime conducts these activities to mislead international public opinion and U.S. satellite imagery."
© The Asia Business Daily(www.asiae.co.kr). All rights reserved.
