North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has regained weight and is experiencing obesity-related health issues such as high blood pressure and diabetes, according to South Korea’s spy agency. Officials are seeking new medications abroad to address these problems, South Korean lawmakers were informed on Monday.
Kim, 40, is known for his heavy drinking and smoking. His family has a history of heart issues, with both his father and grandfather, previous North Korean leaders, having died from heart-related conditions.
Observers noted that Kim, who stands at about 170 centimeters (5 feet, 7 inches) and previously weighed 140 kilograms (308 pounds), appeared to have lost significant weight in 2021, likely due to dietary changes. However, recent footage from state media shows that he has regained the lost weight.
The National Intelligence Service, South Korea’s primary spy agency, briefed lawmakers on Monday, revealing that Kim’s weight is estimated to be around 140 kilograms (308 pounds) again, putting him at high risk for heart disease, according to lawmaker Lee Seong Kweun.
