North Korean Government has warned its citizens to refrain from talking about Kim Jong Un’s weight loss, stating that gossip is a ‘reactionary act’ that could attract heavy punishment.
Government authorities have insisted the national leader has been eating less ‘for the sake of the country’ in recent days as it grapples with severe food shortages and claimed Kim is healthy.
Speculation about Kim’s health started after photos showed the despot looking increasingly thin after he apparently shed up to 44 pounds earlier this year.
However, efforts to stifle gossip about Kim’s weight have failed.
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Sources said neighbourhood watch units had made official statements warning people discussions about Kim’s health were banned.
‘The neighbourhood watch unit also said the sudden weight loss is not due to a health problem, but rather that he is suffering in solitude for the sake of the country and people in crisis’, the anonymous source said.
It is reportedly the first time officials in North Korea have addressed speculation around Kim’s weight loss or heath as it is usually considered a taboo topic.
Another source said North Koreans were pleased at Kim’s weight loss because he was so large ‘it had become difficult for him to walk’.
Some observers say Kim – who is about 5ft8in tall and has previously weighed 308 pounds may have lost between 22 and 44 pounds.
The despot was last month shown waving to a crowd of enthusiastic military officers and seemed to have lost weight around his waist and face with his trademark Mao suit appearing slightly baggy.
Images from the first workshop of the commanders and political officers of the Korean People’s Army show held in July showed Kim with a noticeably slimmer face.
AFRICA DAILY NEWS, NEW YORK
