The state media has so far remained silent after fierce speculation about Kim’s deteriorating health condition. South Korean media reported earlier this week that Kim is struggling with health following medical treatment for cardiovascular disease last week. The United States, once the arch-enemy of the communist country, announced that it was closely monitoring the situation. President Donald Trump said he did not know how Kim is or is not.

“I hope he is doing well. We will hear how he is. ”

According to a defected North Korean diplomat, state media are usually quick to quell rumors. Whenever there are doubts about Kim, North Korea takes action within a few days to demonstrate that he is alive and healthy, the diplomat said.

State media in North Korea reported about Kim’s schedule on Wednesday, using older or undated statements by the leader about the economy, for example. State channel KCNA and the newspaper Rodong Sinmun both did not report on Kim’s health status.