N. Korean leader's reported public appearances exceed number in 2007

BEIJING, Dec. 28 Kyodo -
North Korean leader Kim Jong Il has visited two military units, the country's
official media reported early Sunday, taking the total number of his reported
public appearances in 2008 beyond the figure for the year before.
Kim's visits to units 323 and 1017 of the Korean People's Army, reported by the
Korean Central News Agency, mean he has been seen in public 94 times this year,
up from 91 in 2007.
The increased number comes despite a 50-day period from mid-August when he
disappeared from public view, sparking speculation about his health.
The view that he had suffered a health setback gained momentum especially after
Kim stayed away from a major celebration in September marking the 60th
anniversary of the country's founding.
North Korea has vehemently denied suggestions that Kim is unwell.
The latest reports once again did not say exactly when the visits took place,
although one of them said his inspection of Unit 323 took place ''on the
occasion of the Day of the Socialist Constitution,'' which fell on Saturday.
The separate reports said the leader had his picture taken with soldiers on
both occasions.
They said he was accompanied by Kim Jong Gak, first vice director of the KPA's
General Political Department, as well as generals Hyong Chol Hae and Kim Myong
Guk.
==Kyodo