North Korean state-run media is reporting that Kim Jong Un made an appearance at a May Day celebration, which would be his first public appearance in about three weeks after global speculation over his health.According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim spoke to officials at an event to celebrate Labor Day and inaugurate a fertilizer plant.
“When the Sunchon Phosphatic Fertilizer Manufacturing Plant goes into operation, it will represent a historical development in our country’s fertilizer industry, it will be a glorious revolution and a splendid display of our nation’s great economic potential, and it will be an uplifting banner that assures us of the achievements of our country’s general economic frontline,” Kim said, according to the KCNA report.
The report added that Kim “expressed satisfaction about the wonderful creation” and congratulated staff from the Kim Chaek University of Technology, “repeatedly stressing that talents are a great source and a motive power of the development of the country.
“KCNA also released a still photograph purportedly showing Kim at the ceremony. The picture shows him cutting a red ribbon, with his sister Kim Yo-jong behind him. A photo released from North Korea’s official Korean Central News Agency on May 2 reportedly shows Kim Jong Un attending a ceremony to mark the completion of Sunchon phosphatic fertilizer factory in South Pyongan province. CNN cannot independently confirm the reporting of KCNA.CNN cannot independently verify KCNA’s reports, the authenticity of the photograph or the date it was shot.
Questions were raised about Kim’s well-being after he missed the celebration of his grandfather’s birthday on April 15. He had been seen four days before that at a politburo meeting, according to KCNA. North Korean state newspaper Rodong Sinmun said Sunday that Kim sent thanks to workers who helped in remodelling the city of Samjiyon.CNN cannot independently confirm the authenticity of Sunday’s report and whether the note of thanks came directly from the leader.
The same newspaper said Friday that Kim had “sent thanks” to exemplary party members for their work promoting party policy. The article did not give details for when or how his sentiments were expressed. It is not the first time North Korean media has reported on Kim’s activities since news of his potential health issues emerged.
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