North Korea held a stamp exhibition and a light show on Tuesday (October 6) to celebrate the 75th founding anniversary of Workers' Party of Korea (WPK).

North Korea holds stamp exhibition and light show to mark party anniversary

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un may have apologised for killing South Korean man, but he has warned South Korea of not taking matters in their own hands.

Few days ago, South Korean fisheries official was reported to be tortured and murdered by the North Korean officials at the sea. Kim Jong Un, upon hearing of the incident, issued a rare apology to the neighbour.

A statement from the North Korea described the incident as an "awful case which should not have happened". However, North also warned South to resist their naval intrusions in the North Korean waters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-apologised-for-killing-of-south-korean-citizen-seoul-330111">Also read|&nbsp;Kim Jong Un apologised for killing of South Korean citizen: Seoul</a>

"We urge the south side to immediately halt the intrusion across the military demarcation line in the west sea that may lead to escalation of tensions," the report said.

North has warned South that if such intrusions continue, it could lead to rise in tensions between the two neighbours.

The statement from north came after they initiated its own search operation to recover the body — which the South claims was doused in fuel and burnt.

"We also took more necessary security measures in order to make sure that no more incident spoiling the relations of trust and respect between the north and the south would happen in any case, true to the intention of our Supreme Leadership," the report added, without elaborating.

North has promised to find ways to return the body of the murdered official to Seoul, if found.

While South Korea has urged North to initiate a collaborative investigation into the fatal shooting, there has been no comment from the South Korean officials on this warning by North.

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un may have apologised for killing South Korean man, but he has warned South Korea of not taking matters in their own hands. Few days ago, South Korean fisheries official was reported to be tortured and murdered by the North Korean officials at the sea.

North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un may have apologised for killing South Korean man, but he has warned South Korea of not taking matters in their own hands. Few days ago, South Korean fisheries official was reported to be tortured and murdered by the North Korean officials at the sea. Kim Jong Un, upon hearing of the incident, issued a rare apology to the neighbour. A statement from the North Korea described the incident as an "awful case which should not have happened". However, North also warned South to resist their naval intrusions in the North Korean waters. Also read| Kim Jong Un apologised for killing of South Korean citizen: Seoul "We urge the south side to immediately halt the intrusion across the military demarcation line in the west sea that may lead to escalation of tensions," the report said. North has warned South that if such intrusions continue, it could lead to rise in tensions between the two neighbours. The statement from north came after they initiated its own search operation to recover the body — which the South claims was doused in fuel and burnt. "We also took more necessary security measures in order to make sure that no more incident spoiling the relations of trust and respect between the north and the south would happen in any case, true to the intention of our Supreme Leadership," the report added, without elaborating. North has promised to find ways to return the body of the murdered official to Seoul, if found. While South Korea has urged North to initiate a collaborative investigation into the fatal shooting, there has been no comment from the South Korean officials on this warning by North.

North Korea warns of naval tensions during search for shot South Korean man

Kim Jong Un apologised over the killing of South Korean in North Korean waters, Seoul's presidential office said on Friday.&nbsp;

The North Korean leader described the incident a "disgraceful affair" and apologised "for disappointing President Moon and South Koreans", as reported by the Yonhap news agency.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-president-calls-killing-of-official-by-north-korea-unpardonable-329950">South Korean president calls killing of official by North Korea 'unpardonable'</a>

Earlier, South Korean officials claimed on Thursday that a suspected defector was shot dead in the water by North's soldiers at sea and his body burned as a precaution to contain novel coronavirus.&nbsp;

It is the first killing of any South Korean citizen by North in more than a decade as relations between both the countries remain at a standstill.&nbsp;

Seoul officials also said that the citizen expressed his intent to defect when he was being questioned by Pyongyang and was killed after an "order from superior authority",&nbsp;

Following the incident, President Moon Jae-in described it as "shocking" and "unpardonable" on Thursday.&nbsp;

"This is a shocking incident and I am regrettable. It is unpardonable for any reasons," said Kang Min-seok, spokesperson of President Moon said in a statement.&nbsp;

Moon also ordered the country's military to increase the alert to protect the lives of the citizens.&nbsp;

Pyongyang has ordered the closure of its borders and declared an emergency to prevent the spread of coronavirus that has spread in neighbouring China and South Korea.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Kim Jong Un apologised over the killing of South Korean in North Korean waters, Seoul's presidential office said on Friday. The North Korean leader described the incident a "disgraceful affair" and apologised "for disappointing President Moon and South Koreans", as reported by the Yonhap news agency.

Kim Jong Un apologised over the killing of South Korean in North Korean waters, Seoul's presidential office said on Friday. The North Korean leader described the incident a "disgraceful affair" and apologised "for disappointing President Moon and South Koreans", as reported by the Yonhap news agency. Also read | South Korean president calls killing of official by North Korea 'unpardonable' Earlier, South Korean officials claimed on Thursday that a suspected defector was shot dead in the water by North's soldiers at sea and his body burned as a precaution to contain novel coronavirus. It is the first killing of any South Korean citizen by North in more than a decade as relations between both the countries remain at a standstill. Seoul officials also said that the citizen expressed his intent to defect when he was being questioned by Pyongyang and was killed after an "order from superior authority", Following the incident, President Moon Jae-in described it as "shocking" and "unpardonable" on Thursday. "This is a shocking incident and I am regrettable. It is unpardonable for any reasons," said Kang Min-seok, spokesperson of President Moon said in a statement. Moon also ordered the country's military to increase the alert to protect the lives of the citizens. Pyongyang has ordered the closure of its borders and declared an emergency to prevent the spread of coronavirus that has spread in neighbouring China and South Korea.

Kim Jong Un apologised for killing of South Korean citizen: Seoul

Kim Jong-un apologised over the killing of South Korean in North Korean waters, Seoul's presidential office said on Friday. The North Korean leader described the incident a "disgraceful affair" and apologised "for disappointing President Moon and South Koreans", as reported by the Yonhap news agency.

Kim Jong-un says sorry to South Korea's President Moon Jae-in

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un apologised over the killing of a South Korean at sea, calling it an unexpected and disgraceful event.

North Korea apologises over South Korean citizen's killing

South Korea's defence ministry said today that North Korean forces shot dead a South Korean fisheries official who had disappeared during a routine patrol operation.

The ministry said the official was&nbsp;onboard the vessel was near the western border of Yeonpyeong island after confirming intelligence data.

"We sternly warn North Korea that all responsibilities for this incident lie with it," the defence ministry said while informing that North Korean authorities later cremated the South Korean man.

North Korean officials had earlier closed the border along Kaesong city over coronavirus fears after an alleged North Korean defector who had fled to the neighbouring South three years ago crawled back into the country.

North Korean authorities have reportedly been issued shoot-to-kill orders to prevent the coronavirus from entering the country. North Korea had closed the border with China back in January to prevent the outbreak of the virus.

South Korea's defence ministry said today that North Korean forces shot dead a South Korean fisheries official who had disappeared during a routine patrol operation.

South Korea's defence ministry said today that North Korean forces shot dead a South Korean fisheries official who had disappeared during a routine patrol operation. The ministry said the official was onboard the vessel was near the western border of Yeonpyeong island after confirming intelligence data. "We sternly warn North Korea that all responsibilities for this incident lie with it," the defence ministry said while informing that North Korean authorities later cremated the South Korean man. North Korean officials had earlier closed the border along Kaesong city over coronavirus fears after an alleged North Korean defector who had fled to the neighbouring South three years ago crawled back into the country. North Korean authorities have reportedly been issued shoot-to-kill orders to prevent the coronavirus from entering the country. North Korea had closed the border with China back in January to prevent the outbreak of the virus.

South Korean man strays in Pyongyang waters; shot & cremated by North Korea

A South Korean official was shot dead after crossing a maritime border into North Korea, Seoul said Thursday.

North Korea accused of killing South Korean official and burning his body

North Korean regime which is known for its propagandas videos is now come up with a new video and it shows, believe it or not, residents holding a ceremony to mark the handover of the new houses after a recent hurricane.

North Korea: Storm stricken locals get new houses

North Korean residents held a dancing ceremony to mark the handover of new houses after a recent Hurricane ravaged the entire country. Watch report.

North Korea: Pyongyang's state broadcaster release video of residents celebrating new homes

Pre-school students in North Korea will now have to study the life of Kim Jong-un for 90 minutes a day. Which other world leaders have used education as a tool for political indoctrination? Palki Sharma Upadhyay gets you a report.

Gravitas: How North Korea is brainwashing school students

September 14 in history: From formation of OPEC to assassination of an Afghan President

North Korea executed five government officials after they spoke out against the regime's economic policies. All five Economic Ministry employees were shot by firing squad after details of their conversations emerged at a dinner party.

Five North Korean govt workers executed for criticising Kim Jong-un's policies

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un was seen inspecting the reconstruction work in the flood-hit areas on Saturday, after a series of typhoons hit the country.

The condition of the flood-hit areas was earlier investigated by the leader few weeks back, following which he had ordered his loyalists to&nbsp;plan&nbsp;for an economy already hobbled by sanctions.

Kim said North Korea's economy "has faced trouble and distress at the great damage caused by the recent series of heavy rain and typhoons," the local media reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-de-facto-second-in-command-kim-yo-jong-disappears-off-public-radar-326210">Also read:&nbsp;North Korea's de facto second-in-command Kim Yo-jong disappears off public radar</a>

He visited Taechong-ri, a village in North Hwanghae province and&nbsp;said he was satisfied with the&nbsp;recent developments of restructuring the affected areas, and&nbsp;with the progress.&nbsp;

The appearances are also being studied as a move to reassure his presence in the country, after various rumours about his health followed by controversies surrounding the disappearance of his sister.

He has also asked his party loyalists to come up with advanced plans of containing the spread of the novel coronavirus in the county. However, the US Forces Korea (USFK) commander Robert Abrams has alleged that the North Korean authorities have issued shoot-to-kill orders to prevent the coronavirus entering the country from China.

Abrams also revealed that there has been an increase in the&nbsp;demand for smuggled goods since the lockdown of borders.

"They've got North Korean SOF (Special Operations Forces) out there. ... Strike forces, they've got shoot-to-kill orders in place," Abrams said.

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un was seen inspecting the reconstruction work in the flood-hit areas on Saturday, after a series of typhoons hit the country. The condition of the flood-hit areas was earlier investigated by the leader few weeks back, following which he had ordered his loyalists to plan for an economy already hobbled by sanctions.

North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un was seen inspecting the reconstruction work in the flood-hit areas on Saturday, after a series of typhoons hit the country. The condition of the flood-hit areas was earlier investigated by the leader few weeks back, following which he had ordered his loyalists to plan for an economy already hobbled by sanctions. Kim said North Korea's economy "has faced trouble and distress at the great damage caused by the recent series of heavy rain and typhoons," the local media reported. Also read: North Korea's de facto second-in-command Kim Yo-jong disappears off public radar He visited Taechong-ri, a village in North Hwanghae province and said he was satisfied with the recent developments of restructuring the affected areas, and with the progress. The appearances are also being studied as a move to reassure his presence in the country, after various rumours about his health followed by controversies surrounding the disappearance of his sister. He has also asked his party loyalists to come up with advanced plans of containing the spread of the novel coronavirus in the county. However, the US Forces Korea (USFK) commander Robert Abrams has alleged that the North Korean authorities have issued shoot-to-kill orders to prevent the coronavirus entering the country from China. Abrams also revealed that there has been an increase in the demand for smuggled goods since the lockdown of borders. "They've got North Korean SOF (Special Operations Forces) out there. ... Strike forces, they've got shoot-to-kill orders in place," Abrams said.

Kim Jong Un visits typhoon-hit areas to assess redevelopment

North Korean authorities have issued shoot-to-kill orders to prevent the coronavirus entering the country from China, according to the commander of US forces in the South.

The impoverished North — whose crumbling health system would struggle to cope with a major virus outbreak — has not confirmed a single case of the disease that has swept the world since first emerging in China, the North's key ally.

Pyongyang closed its border with China in January to try to prevent contamination, and in July state media said it had raised its state of emergency to the maximum level.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-de-facto-second-in-command-kim-yo-jong-disappears-off-public-radar-326210">Also read:&nbsp;North Korea's de facto second-in-command Kim Yo-jong disappears off public radar</a>

US Forces Korea (USFK) commander Robert Abrams said that the border shutdown had increased demand for smuggled goods, prompting authorities to intervene.

The North introduced a new "buffer zone, one or two kilometers up on the Chinese border," Abrams told an online conference organized by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington on Thursday.

"They've got North Korean SOF (Special Operations Forces) out there. ... Strike forces, they've got shoot-to-kill orders in place."

The border closure had effectively "accelerated the effects" of economic sanctions imposed on the North over its nuclear programs, he added, with imports from China plunging 85 percent.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-uns-sister-is-de-facto-second-in-command-says-lawmaker-322027">Also read|&nbsp;North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister is 'de facto second-in-command', says lawmaker</a>

The isolated country is also grappling with the aftermath of Typhoon Maysak, with its state media reporting more than 2,000 houses have been destroyed or inundated.

As a result, Abrams did not expect to see any major provocations from Pyongyang in the near future, although he said it might show off a new weapons system at next month's celebrations of the 75th anniversary of the founding of Kim Jong Un's ruling party.

"The regime right now –- the military -– is focused principally on getting their country recovered and to help mitigate the risk of Covid-19," he said.&nbsp;

"We're not seeing any indications right now of any sort of lashing out."

But CSIS published on its website a satellite image of North Korea's Sinpo South naval shipyard, which its experts believe shows activity that could indicate preparations for a test of a submarine-launched ballistic missile.

A new North Korean missile test would be yet another sign of the lack of progress in denuclearization talks between the US and Pyongyang, which have been stalled despite multiple meetings between Kim and US President Donald Trump.

Trump, who is seeking reelection in November, was the first sitting US leader to meet a member of the Kim dynasty, which has ruled North Korea since its founding.

On Thursday, Trump tweeted, without further explanation: "Kim Jong Un is in good health. Never underestimate him!"

North Korean authorities have issued shoot-to-kill orders to prevent the coronavirus entering the country from China, according to the commander of US forces in the South.

North Korean authorities have issued shoot-to-kill orders to prevent the coronavirus entering the country from China, according to the commander of US forces in the South. The impoverished North — whose crumbling health system would struggle to cope with a major virus outbreak — has not confirmed a single case of the disease that has swept the world since first emerging in China, the North's key ally. Pyongyang closed its border with China in January to try to prevent contamination, and in July state media said it had raised its state of emergency to the maximum level. Also read: North Korea's de facto second-in-command Kim Yo-jong disappears off public radar US Forces Korea (USFK) commander Robert Abrams said that the border shutdown had increased demand for smuggled goods, prompting authorities to intervene. The North introduced a new "buffer zone, one or two kilometers up on the Chinese border," Abrams told an online conference organized by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington on Thursday. "They've got North Korean SOF (Special Operations Forces) out there. ... Strike forces, they've got shoot-to-kill orders in place." The border closure had effectively "accelerated the effects" of economic sanctions imposed on the North over its nuclear programs, he added, with imports from China plunging 85 percent. Also read| North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister is 'de facto second-in-command', says lawmaker The isolated country is also grappling with the aftermath of Typhoon Maysak, with its state media reporting more than 2,000 houses have been destroyed or inundated. As a result, Abrams did not expect to see any major provocations from Pyongyang in the near future, although he said it might show off a new weapons system at next month's celebrations of the 75th anniversary of the founding of Kim Jong Un's ruling party. "The regime right now –- the military -– is focused principally on getting their country recovered and to help mitigate the risk of Covid-19," he said. "We're not seeing any indications right now of any sort of lashing out." But CSIS published on its website a satellite image of North Korea's Sinpo South naval shipyard, which its experts believe shows activity that could indicate preparations for a test of a submarine-launched ballistic missile. A new North Korean missile test would be yet another sign of the lack of progress in denuclearization talks between the US and Pyongyang, which have been stalled despite multiple meetings between Kim and US President Donald Trump. Trump, who is seeking reelection in November, was the first sitting US leader to meet a member of the Kim dynasty, which has ruled North Korea since its founding. On Thursday, Trump tweeted, without further explanation: "Kim Jong Un is in good health. Never underestimate him!"

North Korea issues shoot-to-kill orders to prevent virus: US

Kim Yo Jong, younger sister of North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un, has appeared to have vanished from public view after last being pictured on July 27. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-uns-sister-is-de-facto-second-in-command-says-lawmaker-322027">Also read | North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister is 'de facto second-in-command', says lawmaker</a> 
 
This is despite rumours she was on the brink of taking over from her brother after being given more power while he battled his health.

Her absence from the public eye is a sharp contrast to the activities of other North Korean officials. This is raising questions about her whereabouts given that she has been delegated part of her brother's authority.

While Kim Yo-jong has been absent from public duties, her older brother, who also disappeared from public eye for nearly three weeks earlier this year, has recently been appearing in public frequently.

Kim is currently the deputy director of WPK Propaganda and Agitation Department and media reports suggest that she has been groomed by Kim Jong Un to replace their aunt Kim Kyong-hui -- with whom Kim Jong is said to have a good relation -- to be his support system.

Experts fear her increasing power may play a factor in her apparent disappearance.

North Korea has never publicized who would follow leader Kim Jong Un in the event he is incapacitated, and with no details known about his young children, analysts say his sister and loyalists could form a regency until a successor is old enough to take over.&nbsp;

The younger sister of Dictator Kim Jong-un, who has steadily risen through the regime's ranks to become the leader's alter-ego.

Today, Yo-jong is the number two in North Korea. She is the leader's trusted ally and is equally unpredictable.

Yo-jong was rarely seen in public until 2010. But her journey to the country's top seat began in the 1990s. She attended primary school in Switzerland and lived in a private home in Berne along with Kim.

Yo-jong went on to attend the Kim Il-sung University in Pyongyang, where she graduated in computer science.

She was given her first public role in 2017. Yo-jong's father and former North Korean leader--- Kim Jong II appointed her as a junior cadre in the ruling Korean worker's party.

It is said, she played a key role in arranging Kim's succession as the supreme ruler.

In 2014, Yo-jong accompanied her brother during the elections for the country's supreme assembly.

She is believed to be the brain behind Kim's cautiously-crafted public image and also his nuclear diplomacy.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Kim Yo Jong, younger sister of North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un, has appeared to have vanished from public view after last being pictured on July 27. Also read | North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister is 'de facto second-in-command', says lawmaker This is despite rumours she was on the brink of taking over from her brother after being given more power while he battled his health.

Kim Yo Jong, younger sister of North Korea's supreme leader Kim Jong Un, has appeared to have vanished from public view after last being pictured on July 27. Also read | North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister is 'de facto second-in-command', says lawmaker This is despite rumours she was on the brink of taking over from her brother after being given more power while he battled his health. Her absence from the public eye is a sharp contrast to the activities of other North Korean officials. This is raising questions about her whereabouts given that she has been delegated part of her brother's authority. While Kim Yo-jong has been absent from public duties, her older brother, who also disappeared from public eye for nearly three weeks earlier this year, has recently been appearing in public frequently. Kim is currently the deputy director of WPK Propaganda and Agitation Department and media reports suggest that she has been groomed by Kim Jong Un to replace their aunt Kim Kyong-hui -- with whom Kim Jong is said to have a good relation -- to be his support system. Experts fear her increasing power may play a factor in her apparent disappearance. North Korea has never publicized who would follow leader Kim Jong Un in the event he is incapacitated, and with no details known about his young children, analysts say his sister and loyalists could form a regency until a successor is old enough to take over. The younger sister of Dictator Kim Jong-un, who has steadily risen through the regime's ranks to become the leader's alter-ego. Today, Yo-jong is the number two in North Korea. She is the leader's trusted ally and is equally unpredictable. Yo-jong was rarely seen in public until 2010. But her journey to the country's top seat began in the 1990s. She attended primary school in Switzerland and lived in a private home in Berne along with Kim. Yo-jong went on to attend the Kim Il-sung University in Pyongyang, where she graduated in computer science. She was given her first public role in 2017. Yo-jong's father and former North Korean leader--- Kim Jong II appointed her as a junior cadre in the ruling Korean worker's party. It is said, she played a key role in arranging Kim's succession as the supreme ruler. In 2014, Yo-jong accompanied her brother during the elections for the country's supreme assembly. She is believed to be the brain behind Kim's cautiously-crafted public image and also his nuclear diplomacy. (With inputs from agencies)

North Korea's de facto second-in-command Kim Yo-jong disappears off public radar

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered 12,000 elite members of his ruling party based in Pyongyang to help with recovery efforts in two rural provinces lashed by a powerful typhoon, state media reported Sunday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-officials-to-be-punished-after-typhoon-causes-dozens-of-casualties-325465" hreflang="en">NKorea officials to be punished after typhoon causes 'dozens of casualties'</a>

Typhoon Maysak brought days of heavy downpours to the country's east coast earlier this week even as the North was still reeling from earlier flooding and typhoon damage, and another storm is forecast to barrel through the peninsula by Tuesday.

Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact in the North due to its creaking infrastructure, and the country is vulnerable to flooding as many mountains and hills have long been deforested.

More than 1,000 homes were destroyed by Maysak and public buildings and farmland were inundated with floodwater across North and South Hamgyong provinces, the official KCNA news agency reported.

Kim inspected the damage on Saturday and held a policy meeting on disaster relief efforts, KCNA said.

He also dismissed the chairman of the South Hamgyong provincial party committee, the report added.

Photos carried by Sunday's official Rodong Sinmun newspaper showed Kim standing in front of destroyed homes and toppled trees as he discussed the situation with officials.

In a two-page handwritten open letter to members of the ruling Workers' Party in Pyongyang, Kim said around 12,000 members from the capital will be sent to the two provinces to help with the recovery ahead of a key holiday next month.

North Korea will mark the 75th anniversary of the foundation of the party on October 10.

"We cannot let a lot of people in South Hamgyong Province and North Hamgyong Province who newly suffered damage spend the holiday homeless," Kim was quoted as saying in the letter, which was carried by the Rodong Sinmun.

The damage was an "urgent situation which needs to be tackled without even a moment's delay", he added.

The report did not say how many were injured, missing or dead.

In 2016 at least 138 North Koreans died after torrential rain triggered major floods, the United Nations said at the time.

In the summer of 2012 more than 160 people were killed by a massive rainstorm.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered 12,000 elite members of his ruling party based in Pyongyang to help with recovery efforts in two rural provinces lashed by a powerful typhoon, state media reported Sunday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ordered 12,000 elite members of his ruling party based in Pyongyang to help with recovery efforts in two rural provinces lashed by a powerful typhoon, state media reported Sunday. Also read: NKorea officials to be punished after typhoon causes 'dozens of casualties' Typhoon Maysak brought days of heavy downpours to the country's east coast earlier this week even as the North was still reeling from earlier flooding and typhoon damage, and another storm is forecast to barrel through the peninsula by Tuesday. Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact in the North due to its creaking infrastructure, and the country is vulnerable to flooding as many mountains and hills have long been deforested. More than 1,000 homes were destroyed by Maysak and public buildings and farmland were inundated with floodwater across North and South Hamgyong provinces, the official KCNA news agency reported. Kim inspected the damage on Saturday and held a policy meeting on disaster relief efforts, KCNA said. He also dismissed the chairman of the South Hamgyong provincial party committee, the report added. Photos carried by Sunday's official Rodong Sinmun newspaper showed Kim standing in front of destroyed homes and toppled trees as he discussed the situation with officials. In a two-page handwritten open letter to members of the ruling Workers' Party in Pyongyang, Kim said around 12,000 members from the capital will be sent to the two provinces to help with the recovery ahead of a key holiday next month. North Korea will mark the 75th anniversary of the foundation of the party on October 10. "We cannot let a lot of people in South Hamgyong Province and North Hamgyong Province who newly suffered damage spend the holiday homeless," Kim was quoted as saying in the letter, which was carried by the Rodong Sinmun. The damage was an "urgent situation which needs to be tackled without even a moment's delay", he added. The report did not say how many were injured, missing or dead. In 2016 at least 138 North Koreans died after torrential rain triggered major floods, the United Nations said at the time. In the summer of 2012 more than 160 people were killed by a massive rainstorm.

North Korea's Kim Jong Un orders thousands to help typhoon recovery

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un toured areas hit by a typhoon, replaced a local provincial party committee chairman and ordered Pyongyang officials to lead a recovery effort.

Kim Jong Un tours Typhoon ravaged areas of North Korea

North Korea has pledged harsh punishment for local officials it says failed to protect residents from a typhoon which caused a “serious incident” with dozens of casualties, the ruling party’s newspaper reported.

Typhoon Maysak brought heavy downpours across the country earlier this week, with footage showing a street inundated with water in the eastern port town of Wonsan, Kangwon province.

Saturday’s Rodong Sinmun, an official newspaper, reported that leaders had decided to punish “irresponsible” city and provincial officials for causing “a serious incident involving dozens of casualties”.

The report did not say how many were injured, missing or dead.

The officials failed to “immediately organise a project to thoroughly identify properties at risk and evacuate all residents” despite being ordered by the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea headed by leader Kim Jong Un, it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-suggest-north-korea-may-be-preparing-to-launch-submarine-missile-us-think-tank-325354">Also read|&nbsp;Satellite images suggest North Korea may be preparing to launch submarine missile: US think tank</a>

“A decision was made to impose severe party, administrative, and legal punishment to those responsible for the casualties.”

Maysak also hit the South, killing at least two people. More than 2,200 people were evacuated to temporary shelters in the southern city of Busan.

Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact in the North due to its creaking infrastructure, and the country is vulnerable to flooding as many mountains and hills have long been deforested.

Punishing the local officials is a “way for the North Korean leadership to avoid blame” for the casualties, Ahn Chan-il, a defector turned researcher based in Seoul, said.

“They are sending out a message that Kim Jong Un never does anything wrong, but damages occur only because those who work for him fail to follow his order.”

North Korea has pledged harsh punishment for local officials it says failed to protect residents from a typhoon which caused a “serious incident” with dozens of casualties, the ruling party’s newspaper reported.

North Korea has pledged harsh punishment for local officials it says failed to protect residents from a typhoon which caused a “serious incident” with dozens of casualties, the ruling party’s newspaper reported. Typhoon Maysak brought heavy downpours across the country earlier this week, with footage showing a street inundated with water in the eastern port town of Wonsan, Kangwon province. Saturday’s Rodong Sinmun, an official newspaper, reported that leaders had decided to punish “irresponsible” city and provincial officials for causing “a serious incident involving dozens of casualties”. The report did not say how many were injured, missing or dead. The officials failed to “immediately organise a project to thoroughly identify properties at risk and evacuate all residents” despite being ordered by the ruling Workers’ Party of Korea headed by leader Kim Jong Un, it added. Also read| Satellite images suggest North Korea may be preparing to launch submarine missile: US think tank “A decision was made to impose severe party, administrative, and legal punishment to those responsible for the casualties.” Maysak also hit the South, killing at least two people. More than 2,200 people were evacuated to temporary shelters in the southern city of Busan. Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact in the North due to its creaking infrastructure, and the country is vulnerable to flooding as many mountains and hills have long been deforested. Punishing the local officials is a “way for the North Korean leadership to avoid blame” for the casualties, Ahn Chan-il, a defector turned researcher based in Seoul, said. “They are sending out a message that Kim Jong Un never does anything wrong, but damages occur only because those who work for him fail to follow his order.”

North Korea officials to be punished after typhoon causes 'dozens of casualties'

The Centre for Strategic and International Studies in the United States said satellite images suggest that North Korea may be ready to test a medium-range submarine-based missile.

Satellite images suggests may be North Korea preparing to launch new missile

North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un said Typhoon Bavi had caused only minimal damage to the country after making landfall early on Thursday, state news media KCNA reported on Friday.

Kim, who visited South Hwanghae province southwest of Pyongyang, had issued an alert to prevent crop damage and casualties from the typhoon, which made landfall near the capital, dumping heavy rains and uprooting trees.

North&nbsp;Korea, which has also been stepping up efforts to combat the novel coronavirus, had referred to Typhoon Bavi as the No. 8 storm.

"He said that the scale of damage from Typhoon number&nbsp;8 is smaller than expected, adding that he had worried a lot and he feels it is fortunate to have that amount of damage," said KCNA, referring to Kim's remarks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-un-reappears-days-after-health-speculations-323107">North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reappears days after health speculations</a>

Kim's visit came after the KCTV state television showed scenes of damage from the storm. Heavy rains earlier this month that caused flooding and damaged crops have raised concerns about food supplies in the isolated country.

Kim praised party officials for taking measures to reduce casualties and minimize damage from the storm. The state news agency did not give further details on the scale of the damage.

South&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;reported no casualties from the storm, while some public facilities were damaged and some experienced power outage.

Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact in the North than in the South due to its creaking infrastructure.

The North is also vulnerable to flooding as many mountains and hills have long been deforested, allowing water to flow downhill unchecked.

International aid workers in the country are currently unable to travel outside Pyongyang due to restrictions authorities have imposed to guard against the coronavirus outbreak.

The North has yet to confirm a single case of the disease.

Three of the four officials accompanying Kim wore facemasks, while he did not, the Rodong Sinmun pictures showed.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said Typhoon Bavi had caused only minimal damage to the country after making landfall early on Thursday, state news media KCNA reported on Friday.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said Typhoon Bavi had caused only minimal damage to the country after making landfall early on Thursday, state news media KCNA reported on Friday. Kim, who visited South Hwanghae province southwest of Pyongyang, had issued an alert to prevent crop damage and casualties from the typhoon, which made landfall near the capital, dumping heavy rains and uprooting trees. North Korea, which has also been stepping up efforts to combat the novel coronavirus, had referred to Typhoon Bavi as the No. 8 storm. "He said that the scale of damage from Typhoon number 8 is smaller than expected, adding that he had worried a lot and he feels it is fortunate to have that amount of damage," said KCNA, referring to Kim's remarks. Also read: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reappears days after health speculations Kim's visit came after the KCTV state television showed scenes of damage from the storm. Heavy rains earlier this month that caused flooding and damaged crops have raised concerns about food supplies in the isolated country. Kim praised party officials for taking measures to reduce casualties and minimize damage from the storm. The state news agency did not give further details on the scale of the damage. South Korea reported no casualties from the storm, while some public facilities were damaged and some experienced power outage. Natural disasters tend to have a greater impact in the North than in the South due to its creaking infrastructure. The North is also vulnerable to flooding as many mountains and hills have long been deforested, allowing water to flow downhill unchecked. International aid workers in the country are currently unable to travel outside Pyongyang due to restrictions authorities have imposed to guard against the coronavirus outbreak. The North has yet to confirm a single case of the disease. Three of the four officials accompanying Kim wore facemasks, while he did not, the Rodong Sinmun pictures showed.

North Korea leader Kim Jon-un says Typhoon Bavi caused 'little damage'

North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un&nbsp;at a meeting of a top committee issued&nbsp;warnings on&nbsp;coronavirus and a looming typhoon, following international speculation over his state of health.

Kim's comments come amid conjecture over his health condition after South Korea's spy agency said he had delegated some authority to his sister Kim Yo Jong to relieve his "governance stress".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-leader-kim-jong-uns-sister-is-de-facto-second-in-command-says-lawmaker-322027">North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister is 'de facto second-in-command', says lawmaker</a>

A former aide to late South Korean president Kim Dae-jung even said on Facebook he thought the North's leader was in a coma, though with no apparent evidence.

But Kim presided over a meeting Tuesday of a top committee of the ruling Workers' Party, the official KCNA news agency reported, where he assessed "defects in the state emergency anti-epidemic work for checking the inroads of the malignant virus".

<img alt="Kim Jong Un" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="eba393a4-dda1-4a3b-8b6d-7fc8df080bc5" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2848%29_6.jpg" />

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-jong-un-in-coma-a-former-south-korean-diplomat-claims-322584">North Korea's Kim Jong Un in coma? A former South Korean diplomat claims!</a>

An enlarged meeting of the politburo of the Workers Party took place amid a pandemic that is putting additional pressure on the North&nbsp;Korean economy, battered by recent border closures and flood damage.

<img alt="North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attends an enlarged meeting of the Political Bureau of the 7th Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), in Pyongyang, North Korea" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="5eafb652-192b-482d-8355-1e2e83240280" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20%2846%29_5.jpg" />

North&nbsp;Korean leader Kim Jong Un attends an enlarged meeting of the Political Bureau of the 7th Central Committee of the Workers' Party of&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;(WPK), in Pyongyang, North&nbsp;Korea/&nbsp;REUTERS

The meeting assessed "some defects in the state emergency anti-epidemic work for checking the inroads of the malignant virus", KCNA said in a statement.

North&nbsp;Korea&nbsp;has not reported any confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus, but Kim said last month that the virus "could be said to have entered" the country and imposed a lockdown after a man was reported to have symptoms. Later test results on the man were inconclusive, according to the World Health Organisation.

Kim had this month lifted a three-week lockdown in the city of Kaesong after a suspected case of the coronavirus there.

The meeting discussed state emergency measures on preventing crop damage and casualties from Typhoon Bavi, which is expected to hit the country within days, KCNA reported. Heavy rain and flooding have raised concern about food supplies in the isolated country.

The ruling party had said it will hold a congress next year to decide a new five-year plan, after a party meeting noted serious delays in improving the national economy and living standards.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at a meeting of a top committee issued warnings on coronavirus and a looming typhoon, following international speculation over his state of health.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at a meeting of a top committee issued warnings on coronavirus and a looming typhoon, following international speculation over his state of health. Kim's comments come amid conjecture over his health condition after South Korea's spy agency said he had delegated some authority to his sister Kim Yo Jong to relieve his "governance stress". Also read: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister is 'de facto second-in-command', says lawmaker A former aide to late South Korean president Kim Dae-jung even said on Facebook he thought the North's leader was in a coma, though with no apparent evidence. But Kim presided over a meeting Tuesday of a top committee of the ruling Workers' Party, the official KCNA news agency reported, where he assessed "defects in the state emergency anti-epidemic work for checking the inroads of the malignant virus". Also read: North Korea's Kim Jong Un in coma? A former South Korean diplomat claims! An enlarged meeting of the politburo of the Workers Party took place amid a pandemic that is putting additional pressure on the North Korean economy, battered by recent border closures and flood damage. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attends an enlarged meeting of the Political Bureau of the 7th Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea (WPK), in Pyongyang, North Korea/ REUTERS The meeting assessed "some defects in the state emergency anti-epidemic work for checking the inroads of the malignant virus", KCNA said in a statement. North Korea has not reported any confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus, but Kim said last month that the virus "could be said to have entered" the country and imposed a lockdown after a man was reported to have symptoms. Later test results on the man were inconclusive, according to the World Health Organisation. Kim had this month lifted a three-week lockdown in the city of Kaesong after a suspected case of the coronavirus there. The meeting discussed state emergency measures on preventing crop damage and casualties from Typhoon Bavi, which is expected to hit the country within days, KCNA reported. Heavy rain and flooding have raised concern about food supplies in the isolated country. The ruling party had said it will hold a congress next year to decide a new five-year plan, after a party meeting noted serious delays in improving the national economy and living standards.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un reappears days after health speculations

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has called for prevention efforts against the novel coronavirus and a typhoon.

North Korean leader calls for readiness against Typhoon Bavi

The former aide to South Korea’s late president Kim Dae-jung made the claim about the leader days after he handed over some powers to his younger sister.

Kim Jong-Un in coma with North Korea passing power to sister: Reports

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is reportedly in a coma and his sister Kim Yo-jong will be exercising de facto control over national and international matters

Reports: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in coma

Is Kim's sister a potential successor?

Chang Song-min, a former aide of South Korea’s late president Kim Dae-Jung has added to fuel to the speculations regarding North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's deteriorating health.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-china-tensions-rising-us-joins-taiwan-to-mark-battle-anniversary-322506" hreflang="en">With China tensions rising, US joins Taiwan to mark battle anniversary</a>

According to Chang Song-min, the North Korean ruler Kim Jong Un is in a coma and his sister Kim Yo-jong has been made the de facto second in command with authority and responsibility delegated to her for managing relations with the US and South Korea.&nbsp;

He has claimed to have gotten the information from a source in China as per The Korea Herald.&nbsp;

In an interview with South Korean media, Chang Song-min said: &nbsp;“I assess him to be in a coma, but his life has not ended. “A complete succession structure has not been formed, so Kim Yo-jong is being brought to the fore as the vacuum cannot be maintained for a prolonged period.”

He went on to say that photos of Kim Jong Un that were released by the North Korean media in recent months were fake. As per Chang, the power restructuring does not make Kim Yo-jong the successor to Kim Jong Un.&nbsp;

South Korea's spy agency informed the country's political leaders that the North Korean leader seemed to have adopted delegating authority and responsibility to some of his most trusted aides. But according to the National Intelligence Agency, the change doesn’t appear to be linked to any major health problem, said The Korean Herald.

Fewer public appearances this year by Kim Jong Un fueled rumours of his death. According to some speculations, failed heart surgery of the North Korean leader has either left him bedridden or dead. But these rumours were laid to rest after he made an appearance at the opening of a fertiliser factory in Suchon near the North Korea's capital, Pyongyang.

Chang Song-min, a former aide of South Korea’s late president Kim Dae-Jung has added to fuel to the speculations regarding North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's deteriorating health.

Chang Song-min, a former aide of South Korea’s late president Kim Dae-Jung has added to fuel to the speculations regarding North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's deteriorating health. Also read: With China tensions rising, US joins Taiwan to mark battle anniversary According to Chang Song-min, the North Korean ruler Kim Jong Un is in a coma and his sister Kim Yo-jong has been made the de facto second in command with authority and responsibility delegated to her for managing relations with the US and South Korea. He has claimed to have gotten the information from a source in China as per The Korea Herald. In an interview with South Korean media, Chang Song-min said: “I assess him to be in a coma, but his life has not ended. “A complete succession structure has not been formed, so Kim Yo-jong is being brought to the fore as the vacuum cannot be maintained for a prolonged period.” He went on to say that photos of Kim Jong Un that were released by the North Korean media in recent months were fake. As per Chang, the power restructuring does not make Kim Yo-jong the successor to Kim Jong Un. South Korea's spy agency informed the country's political leaders that the North Korean leader seemed to have adopted delegating authority and responsibility to some of his most trusted aides. But according to the National Intelligence Agency, the change doesn’t appear to be linked to any major health problem, said The Korean Herald. Fewer public appearances this year by Kim Jong Un fueled rumours of his death. According to some speculations, failed heart surgery of the North Korean leader has either left him bedridden or dead. But these rumours were laid to rest after he made an appearance at the opening of a fertiliser factory in Suchon near the North Korea's capital, Pyongyang.

North Korea's Kim Jong Un in coma? A former South Korean diplomat claims!

Former Vice President Joe Biden on Friday has formally accepted the Democratic Presidential nomination. In his nomination acceptance speech, he said, “This campaign isn’t about winning votes, it’s about winning the heart and soul of America,”. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fewer-summits-tighter-sanctions-same-standoff-biden-on-north-korea-322031">Alo read | Fewer summits, tighter sanctions, same standoff: Biden on North Korea</a> 
 
"It is with great honor and humility I accept this nomination for president of the United States of America," the former vice president tweeted.

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It is with great honor and humility that I accept this nomination for President of the United States of America.
— Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden/status/1296647615447207939?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 21, 2020</a></blockquote>
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“The question for us is simple, are we ready? I know we are,” said Biden. “This is a life-changing election, this will determine what America will look like for a long time,” he added. “The choice couldn’t be clearer,” the former Vice President said. “Let American darkness, end here, tonight,” Biden said.

In his speech, he slammed Donald Trump on his response to Covid-19 and lashed out at him for his response to racial justice protests.

"What we know about this president is if he's given four more years, he’ll be what he's been for the last four years. A president who takes no responsibility refuses to lead, blames others, cozies up to dictators and fans the flames of hate and division. He'll wake up every day believing the job is all about him, never about you. Is that the America you want for you, your family, your children?" he said.

"I see a different America. One that's generous and strong, selfless and humble. It's an America we can rebuild together. As president, the first step I will take will be to get control of the virus that has ruined so many lives, because I understand something this president hasn't from the beginning, we will never get our economy back on track," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

Former Vice President Joe Biden on Friday has formally accepted the Democratic Presidential nomination. In his nomination acceptance speech, he said, “This campaign isn’t about winning votes, it’s about winning the heart and soul of America,”.

Former Vice President Joe Biden on Friday has formally accepted the Democratic Presidential nomination. In his nomination acceptance speech, he said, “This campaign isn’t about winning votes, it’s about winning the heart and soul of America,”. Alo read | Fewer summits, tighter sanctions, same standoff: Biden on North Korea "It is with great honor and humility I accept this nomination for president of the United States of America," the former vice president tweeted. It is with great honor and humility that I accept this nomination for President of the United States of America. — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) August 21, 2020 × “The question for us is simple, are we ready? I know we are,” said Biden. “This is a life-changing election, this will determine what America will look like for a long time,” he added. “The choice couldn’t be clearer,” the former Vice President said. “Let American darkness, end here, tonight,” Biden said. In his speech, he slammed Donald Trump on his response to Covid-19 and lashed out at him for his response to racial justice protests. "What we know about this president is if he's given four more years, he’ll be what he's been for the last four years. A president who takes no responsibility refuses to lead, blames others, cozies up to dictators and fans the flames of hate and division. He'll wake up every day believing the job is all about him, never about you. Is that the America you want for you, your family, your children?" he said. "I see a different America. One that's generous and strong, selfless and humble. It's an America we can rebuild together. As president, the first step I will take will be to get control of the virus that has ruined so many lives, because I understand something this president hasn't from the beginning, we will never get our economy back on track," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Let American darkness end here: Joe Biden formally accepts US Democratic Presidential nomination

If Joe Biden is elected US president, American policy toward North Korea is likely to see less emphasis on personal dealings with leader Kim Jong Un, and more focus on allies and working-level diplomacy, campaign advisers and former officials say.

That also means there would be no more "Little Rocket Man", exchanging love letters or summit pageantry.

The incumbent US president, Donald Trump, has said he would make deals with North Korea "very quickly" if re-elected on November 3.

Pyongyang officials, however, have said while Kim still has a good relationship with Trump, they have to look ahead to a time when Trump isn't president.

Last year, North Korea lashed out at Biden, calling him a "rabid dog" that should "be beaten to death" for comments seen as disparaging of Kim.

Biden, who has a solid lead in most opinion polls, cited those threats in January when he said he would not meet with Kim unless unspecified preconditions are met.

Trump became the first sitting US president to meet with a North Korean leader when he held a summit with Kim in Singapore in 2018 -- although this happened after months of trading threats and insults where Kim was "Little Rocket Man" and Trump a "deranged US dotard".&nbsp;

The two leaders met twice more, and exchanged what Trump called "beautiful letters", but failed to resolve a standoff over North Korea's nuclear weapons.

Biden told The New York Times he would not continue the personal diplomacy with Kim, calling the meetings a "vanity project" that should only happen if coupled with "an actual strategy that moves the ball forward on denuclearisation."

Biden would not shut the door to diplomacy, but instead "empower negotiators and implement a sustained and a coordinated effort with allies and partners" to pressure and incentivise North Korea to denuclearize, while also drawing attention the country's human rights abuses in a way that has been lacking in current US policy, the Biden adviser said.

Biden was vice president under Barack Obama, and some parts of his policy would likely be similar to Obama's "strategic patience", which sought to isolate North Korea and not offer diplomatic rewards for its provocations.

Biden's promise to work more closely with allies may be complicated by South Korean President Moon Jae-in's push for more engagement with North Korea and looser sanctions, while downplaying human rights issues.

Kim has also made significant progress in advancing his military capabilities since Biden last held office, successfully testing North Korea's largest nuclear bomb and missiles capable of striking anywhere in the United States.

The US arms control community is likely to have a strong voice in a Biden administration and will argue it is time to accept the idea that North Korea is now a nuclear power.

If Joe Biden is elected US president, American policy toward North Korea is likely to see less emphasis on personal dealings with leader Kim Jong Un, and more focus on allies and working-level diplomacy, campaign advisers and former officials say.

If Joe Biden is elected US president, American policy toward North Korea is likely to see less emphasis on personal dealings with leader Kim Jong Un, and more focus on allies and working-level diplomacy, campaign advisers and former officials say. That also means there would be no more "Little Rocket Man", exchanging love letters or summit pageantry. The incumbent US president, Donald Trump, has said he would make deals with North Korea "very quickly" if re-elected on November 3. Pyongyang officials, however, have said while Kim still has a good relationship with Trump, they have to look ahead to a time when Trump isn't president. Last year, North Korea lashed out at Biden, calling him a "rabid dog" that should "be beaten to death" for comments seen as disparaging of Kim. Biden, who has a solid lead in most opinion polls, cited those threats in January when he said he would not meet with Kim unless unspecified preconditions are met. Trump became the first sitting US president to meet with a North Korean leader when he held a summit with Kim in Singapore in 2018 -- although this happened after months of trading threats and insults where Kim was "Little Rocket Man" and Trump a "deranged US dotard". The two leaders met twice more, and exchanged what Trump called "beautiful letters", but failed to resolve a standoff over North Korea's nuclear weapons. Biden told The New York Times he would not continue the personal diplomacy with Kim, calling the meetings a "vanity project" that should only happen if coupled with "an actual strategy that moves the ball forward on denuclearisation." Biden would not shut the door to diplomacy, but instead "empower negotiators and implement a sustained and a coordinated effort with allies and partners" to pressure and incentivise North Korea to denuclearize, while also drawing attention the country's human rights abuses in a way that has been lacking in current US policy, the Biden adviser said. Biden was vice president under Barack Obama, and some parts of his policy would likely be similar to Obama's "strategic patience", which sought to isolate North Korea and not offer diplomatic rewards for its provocations. Biden's promise to work more closely with allies may be complicated by South Korean President Moon Jae-in's push for more engagement with North Korea and looser sanctions, while downplaying human rights issues. Kim has also made significant progress in advancing his military capabilities since Biden last held office, successfully testing North Korea's largest nuclear bomb and missiles capable of striking anywhere in the United States. The US arms control community is likely to have a strong voice in a Biden administration and will argue it is time to accept the idea that North Korea is now a nuclear power.

Fewer summits, tighter sanctions, same standoff: Biden on North Korea

South Korea's intelligence agency believes that Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, is serving as his "de facto second-in-command" but has not necessarily been designated his successor, a South Korean lawmaker said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korean-prosecutors-open-rare-probe-into-north-koreas-kim-jong-uns-sister-313953">Also read: South Korean prosecutors open rare probe into North Korea's Kim Jong-un’s sister</a>

Believed to be in her early 30s, Kim Yo Jong is the leader's only close relative with a public role in politics, recently spearheading a new, tougher campaign to put pressure on South Korea.

Ha Tae-keung, an opposition party lawmaker on parliament's intelligence committee, told reporters that Kim was helping to run the regime with mandated authority from her brother.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/is-kim-jong-uns-sister-kim-yo-jong-a-potential-successor-294916/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The bottom line is that Kim Jong Un still holds absolute power, but has turned over a bit more of his authority compared to the past," Ha said, following a closed-door briefing by the South's National Intelligence Service.

"Kim Yo Jong is a de facto second-in-command," Ha added in a transcript of remarks seen by Reuters.

More authority on the economic and military policy has also been delegated to several other senior officials, although at a lower level, possibly to reduce strain on Kim Jong Un as well as help him avoid blame for any failures, Ha said.

Kim Yo Jong-won fame ahead of her brother's 2019 summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Vietnam, when her efforts to ensure everything went well included holding an ashtray for the North Korean leader at a train station on his journey.

Her prominence in the campaign against South Korea this year highlighted a substantive policy role that goes beyond being merely Kim's assistant, analysts say.

She issued her first public statements to spray criticism at the neighbouring nation, and the North's state media portrayed her as playing a decision-making role.

In July, she offered personal views on diplomacy with the United States in an unusual statement in state media, saying her brother had given her special permission to watch recordings of that country's Independence Day celebrations.

When rumours and speculation arose in April about Kim Jong Un's health, his sister was seen a possible placeholder to take over the family dynasty until one of Kim's children is old enough.

Kim Yo Jong has been absent, however, from several recent high-level meetings, such as a plenary gathering of the ruling Workers' Party on Wednesday, said NK News, a Seoul-based website that tracks North Korea.

That has stirred some speculation about a possible demotion.

South Korea's intelligence agency believes that Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, is serving as his "de facto second-in-command" but has not necessarily been designated his successor, a South Korean lawmaker said on Thursday.

South Korea's intelligence agency believes that Kim Yo Jong, the sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, is serving as his "de facto second-in-command" but has not necessarily been designated his successor, a South Korean lawmaker said on Thursday. Also read: South Korean prosecutors open rare probe into North Korea's Kim Jong-un’s sister Believed to be in her early 30s, Kim Yo Jong is the leader's only close relative with a public role in politics, recently spearheading a new, tougher campaign to put pressure on South Korea. Ha Tae-keung, an opposition party lawmaker on parliament's intelligence committee, told reporters that Kim was helping to run the regime with mandated authority from her brother. "The bottom line is that Kim Jong Un still holds absolute power, but has turned over a bit more of his authority compared to the past," Ha said, following a closed-door briefing by the South's National Intelligence Service. "Kim Yo Jong is a de facto second-in-command," Ha added in a transcript of remarks seen by Reuters. More authority on the economic and military policy has also been delegated to several other senior officials, although at a lower level, possibly to reduce strain on Kim Jong Un as well as help him avoid blame for any failures, Ha said. Kim Yo Jong-won fame ahead of her brother's 2019 summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Vietnam, when her efforts to ensure everything went well included holding an ashtray for the North Korean leader at a train station on his journey. Her prominence in the campaign against South Korea this year highlighted a substantive policy role that goes beyond being merely Kim's assistant, analysts say. She issued her first public statements to spray criticism at the neighbouring nation, and the North's state media portrayed her as playing a decision-making role. In July, she offered personal views on diplomacy with the United States in an unusual statement in state media, saying her brother had given her special permission to watch recordings of that country's Independence Day celebrations. When rumours and speculation arose in April about Kim Jong Un's health, his sister was seen a possible placeholder to take over the family dynasty until one of Kim's children is old enough. Kim Yo Jong has been absent, however, from several recent high-level meetings, such as a plenary gathering of the ruling Workers' Party on Wednesday, said NK News, a Seoul-based website that tracks North Korea. That has stirred some speculation about a possible demotion.

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's sister is 'de facto second-in-command', says lawmaker

According to South Korea's spy agency North Korean leader Kim Jong-un has assigned more responsibilities to his aides, including his sister Kim Yo-jong.

Kim's sister profile in North Korea increases: Kim Yo Jong gets more power

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Kim Jong-Un in coma with North Korea passing power to sister: Reports

Kim Jong-Un in coma with North Korea passing power to sister: Reports

Reports: North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in coma

Is Kim's sister a potential successor?