'RIP Kim Jong-Un, Dying for the Sixth Time This Year': Has His Sister Been Spreading Death Rumors?

Yet another time this year rumors suggesting that the Supreme Leader of North Korea is in a coma and even dead according to some unverified resources, have resurfaced as numerous websites predict that his sister Kim Yo-Jong will be taking over the family's decades-long rule of the country. 

Last night, several western websites reported statements made by a former South Korean official, who has claimed that Kim Jong-un is in a serious condition after he's entered a coma. 

The UK's Mirror has reported that the North Korean dictator "might not be dead yet but is in a coma for the time being." Several sources have also been alleged that the 31-year-old sister has been tasked with running the country while her brother receives treatment. However, no North Korean media has commented on such news so far.

Despite news of the allegedly "critical condition" of Kim Jong-un grasping social media attention and  quickly drawing thousands of comments, most people noted that the news of the North Korean's health and potential death has been repeated too frequently since the start of 2020, especially as Jong-un has made less public appearances than he used to during the years in which he assumed power since late 2011.

Last April and following Jong-un's absence during the Day of the Sun celebrations, a similar storm of internet rumors spread suggesting that the Korean leader had already died and that his younger sister, often described as the country's "most powerful woman" has taken control of North Korea.

While rumors over the North Korean president have been largely inspired by over-wight and heavy smoking habits, Jong-un reappeared in early May during an opening of a fertilizer factory, shutting all rumors down.

According to a North Korean activist, Jong-un's absence last spring was "a result of his attempt to remain safe during the first Coronavirus outbreak in the country." 

Questions arise over the source of these repeated rumors especially as they are often followed by speculations of his sister assuming power, as some people wonder if she is the mastermind of these baseless rumors as to "prepare the public for a coup in which she overthrows her brother."