NIS Reports on Kim Jong-un's Health and Succession Plan to National Assembly

On the 29th, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) reported to the National Assembly Intelligence Committee about the health condition and succession plan of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. According to the NIS, Kim Jong-un is classified as morbidly obese, weighing 140kg and falling into the high-risk category for heart disease. He has shown symptoms of hypertension and diabetes since his early 30s, and there are recent indications that he is seeking alternative medications beyond his current prescriptions. His body mass index (BMI) significantly exceeds the normal range of 25, reaching the mid-40s, with stress, smoking, and alcohol consumption identified as contributing factors.

Additionally, the NIS indicated that Kim's second daughter, Kim Ju-ae, is being hinted at as a potential successor and is undergoing succession training. The NIS noted that the term "hyangdo," typically reserved for successors or leaders, is being used in reference to Kim Ju-ae. She is primarily involved in military activities, suggesting plans to establish her as a successor. However, the NIS also pointed out that the final successor has not yet been determined, and the possibility of another sibling stepping into the role cannot be ruled out.

The NIS dismissed the speculation that the succession process is being expedited due to Kim Jong-un's deteriorating health, stating there is no direct correlation.

The report also covered North Korea's recent military activities, revealing that the country has conducted 14 missile launches, firing a total of 48 missiles. North Korea is focusing on strengthening its short- and medium-range missile capabilities rather than long-range missiles, with three hypersonic missile tests and five strategic cruise missile tests aiming to enhance tactical operations.

Regarding North Korea's relationship with Russia, the NIS analyzed that following the recent summit between Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, both sides are accelerating the implementation of follow-up measures in military and economic sectors. North Korea is preparing to send workers to Russia and has resumed tourism in the Rason area, which had been suspended since the COVID-19 pandemic. The NIS also noted that North Korea might have received engine support from Russia for its new missile engines.

Furthermore, the NIS plans to expand the scope of espionage-related charges and promote the enactment of the Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA) and the National Security Technology Research Institute Act. Concerning the recent indictment of Sumi Terry, a senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR), by U.S. federal prosecutors for allegedly working as an illegal lobbyist for the NIS, the agency assured that there are no issues affecting South Korea-U.S. intelligence cooperation, which is actually expanding.

Lastly, the NIS announced plans to conduct a major personnel reshuffle in August or September, replacing over 100 officials at the director level or higher, and reassessing senior positions promoted during the Moon Jae-in administration based on their abilities.

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