Speculation over N Korean leader's health ahead of announcement

North Korea will make an “important announcement” tomorrow amid speculation over the health of its leader Kim Jong Il, a Japanese newspaper reported today.

The 66-year-old North Korean leader disappeared from public view in mid-August and failed to make appearances on two important national holidays, leading to speculation he was seriously ill. US and South Korean officials said he suffered a stroke and had brain surgery, but North Korea has denied he is seriously ill.