Kim Jong-un's two-month public absence sparks speculation in North Korea

Kim Jong-un has been absent from public appearances for nearly two months, skipping major events including the Korean War anniversary, sparking speculation about his whereabouts. His last known sighting was a June 9 meeting with Chinese officials. He missed inaugurations of an industrial complex and a schoolchildren's palace, where Premier Pak Thae-song appeared instead. He also skipped responding to officials' condemnation of a US-led naval drill. No official explanation has been given. One theory suggests he is avoiding summer heat, while rumors speculate about his death. No new public photos have emerged since late March.