N. Korean leader shown in sneakers

SEOUL, June 26 (Yonhap) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong-il, who reportedly fell
ill last year, was recently shown wearing sneakers during his public outings,
switching from his trademark platform shoes that added height to his small
stature.
In photographs released by state media on May 24, a day before North Korea
conducted its second nuclear test, Kim, 67, is sporting a pair of dark-colored
sneakers along with a gray parka, suit pants and dark sunglasses. He was giving
"field guidance" at a historic site in the country's northern region.
The walking shoes had a rubber sole attached to their bottom that would enhance
comfort.
Kim, known to be 162 centimeters tall, or about 5'3", has worn height-lifting
shoes during official events, including his summit with the late South Korean
President Roh Moo-hyun in 2007. But the platform shoes were switched to flat
dress shoes after he reportedly suffered a stroke in August last year.
The flat shoes have now been replaced by sneakers, according to pictures released
in recent weeks. But some pictures, like those released on June 5, 6 and 8, still
show Kim in flat shoes during visits to farms and factories that can be easily
reached by walking.
hkim@yna.co.kr
(END)