22 April

US President Donald Trump says his government has not confirmed reports that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un is gravely ill.

CNN and other media outlets quoted a US government official as saying that Kim underwent surgery and is in grave condition. The official reportedly said the US government is closely monitoring the situation. The South Korean government said there were no unusual signs from North Korea.

Trump told journalists on Tuesday that no one has confirmed the reports. He added that if the reports are true, he hopes Kim is doing well.

Last Wednesday, Kim missed a visit to the mausoleum of his grandfather Kim Il Sung, the founder of North Korea. The visit is a key annual event that takes place on Kim Il Sung's birthday.

There are also reports that Kim underwent surgery and is receiving treatment at an unspecified location outside Pyongyang. North Korea's official media outlets have not reported on Kim's movements for more than a week. That has led to speculation about his health.

NHK