Photos Released a Day After Rumors Emerged

North Korean state media, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), published a report and photos on Tuesday (10/20/2026) of Kim Jong Un's visit to the National Exhibition of Footwear and Clothing 2026, which reportedly took place a day earlier in Pyongyang. According to a report by Yonhap News Agency, Kim was accompanied by his wife, Ri Sol Ju, and daughter, Kim Ju Ae, as they observed various light industry products at the exhibition.

During the visit, Kim expressed appreciation for the progress in North Korea's light industry production, especially the improved quality of goods produced by regional factories. KCNA reported that the exhibition featured more than 70,700 pieces of clothing across over 30 categories, as well as over 170,000 pairs of shoes across more than 60 varieties.

The release of these latest photos marks a notable development amid rumors of his death. Although the timing of the photographs and Kim's health condition cannot be independently verified, the documentation provides strong grounds to doubt claims that he has passed away.

Social Media Claims Without Evidence

Rumors regarding the death of Kim Jong Un first emerged via posts by China Democracy Party Chairman Wanjun Xie on the X platform on October 18 and 19, 2026. Xie claimed Kim suffered a severe brain hemorrhage, fell into a coma, and was transported to Beijing for emergency medical treatment.

In his posts, Xie also claimed that Kim's younger sister, Kim Yo Jong, had assumed control of the regime, alongside the dispatch of a medical team from Beijing and the deployment of 9,000 Chinese troops to Pyongyang amid leadership succession concerns. All of these allegations remain unsubstantiated claims without independent evidence.

The rumors were subsequently reported by several foreign media outlets, including The Sun and The New York Post. Those reports cited claims circulating on social media rather than independent confirmation that Kim had died. South Korean diplomatic and security officials also stated they had no information corroborating the reports.

Verification Note: Photos Not Independently Verified

It is important to note: the photos published by KCNA have not been independently verified. The exact time the images were taken cannot be confirmed either, meaning the appearance of the photos does not serve as independent verification of the circulating claims. The photos originate from North Korean state media, and foreign journalists have not verified them.

"Information regarding the health and whereabouts of North Korea's leader is always subject to speculation, particularly given the country's secrecy," said Dr. Han Seok-ho, a Korean affairs analyst at the University of Seoul. "However, Kim Jong Un's public appearance, especially when documented by the official state news agency, is usually a strong indication that the circulating rumors are groundless."

Prior to this latest documentation, Kim was last reported attending the inauguration of the National Defense Revolution Museum on October 11, 2026—reported by North Korean state media on October 13—where he inspected strategic weapons, including the Hwasong-20 intercontinental ballistic missile.