Kim Jong Il photos bid to quiet health fears

NORTH Korea released photographs of leader Kim Jong Il yesterday amid intense speculation over the health of the communist country’s absolute ruler.

Kim, 66, reportedly suffered a stroke and underwent brain surgery in August. North Korea has denied he is ill and has in recent weeks released news reports, photos and footage portraying the leader as active and able.

Yesterday, North Korea’s state TV showed undated still photos of what it said is Kim watching a football match between two army-affiliated teams and talking with people, said the South Korean Unification Ministry.