Putin's North Korea Visit Raises Concerns About Kim Jong Un's Health

The meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has sparked speculation about Kim's health, with experts noting his labored breathing and unhealthy appearance.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years has raised concerns about the health of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. Photos from the meeting show Kim walking with difficulty and breathing heavily, leading to speculation that he may be suffering from serious health issues.

Former CIA North Korea analyst Sue Mi Terry said that Kim "doesn’t look too good to me," based on footage of the meeting with Putin. Professor Sung-Yoon Lee, fellow at Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C., also expressed concerns about Kim's health, noting his "huffing and puffing" after walking a short distance.

Putin's North Korea Visit Raises Concerns About Kim Jong Un's Health

Lee cautioned that Kim has long appeared unhealthy, but his weight loss in 2021 and current labored breathing suggest that his health may be deteriorating. Kim has a history of vices such as heavy drinking and smoking, and his father and grandfather both died from heart attacks.

Despite his apparent health problems, Kim has access to the finest medical care at his disposal, which may prolong his life. However, his health remains a concern for Putin, who relies heavily on weapons from North Korea as the war in Ukraine depletes both sides.

Putin's North Korea Visit Raises Concerns About Kim Jong Un's Health

Kim's health is also important in the context of his relationship with Putin, as the two leaders have grown closer in recent years. They have formed a strategic partnership, supporting each other in their violations of international law and sanctions.

The meeting between Putin and Kim sends a message to Washington and other allies that Russia and North Korea are standing together and will not be deterred from their shared goals. However, Kim's deteriorating health could have implications for the future of this partnership.

Putin's North Korea Visit Raises Concerns About Kim Jong Un's Health

In conclusion, Putin's visit to North Korea has raised concerns about Kim Jong Un's health. His labored breathing and unhealthy appearance suggest that he may be facing serious medical issues. While his access to top-notch healthcare may prolong his life, his health remains a concern for Putin and the future of the Russia-North Korea alliance.