North Korea executes defence chief

North Korea has executed its defence chief by putting him in front of an anti-aircraft gun at a firing range, the latest in a series of high-level purges since Kim Jong-un took charge.

Hyon Yong Chol, who headed the North’s military, was charged with treason, including disobeying Kim and falling asleep during an event at which the young leader was present.

His execution was watched by hundreds of people, according to South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, who briefed politicians on the development.