RismadarVoice Reporters
October 20, 2026
North Korean state media have released new photographs of leader Kim Jong Un following widespread speculation on social media that he had suffered a medical emergency and died.
The photographs, published on Tuesday, October 20, reportedly show Kim visiting a clothing and footwear exhibition in Pyongyang the previous day.
According to North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the leader toured the exhibition alongside senior officials, inspecting products manufactured by domestic enterprises.
The reported appearance came amid unverified allegations that Kim had suffered a severe brain haemorrhage, fallen into a coma and been transported to China for emergency medical treatment.
Some social media accounts went further, claiming that he had died in Beijing and that arrangements were being made for a transfer of political power.
However, no independently verifiable medical records, official death announcement or credible evidence have emerged to substantiate those claims.
The latest photographs challenge the reports of his death, although independent journalists have not verified the circumstances surrounding the images.
Speculation about Kim’s health has previously attracted international attention because of the limited information released about North Korea’s political leadership.
Similar rumours circulated in 2020 following his absence from public engagements, but were subsequently contradicted by his reappearance.
The latest developments have also prompted unsubstantiated claims about a possible leadership transition involving Kim’s sister, Kim Yo Jong, or his daughter, Kim Ju Ae.
There has been no verified announcement of a transfer of power.
As of October 20, the available evidence does not support claims that Kim Jong Un has died.
The situation continues to attract international attention as observers examine official North Korean communications for further developments.
