North Korea 'releases new photo' of leader

North Korea has released a new photograph of leader Kim Jong Il amid intense speculation over his health, it was reported today.

Yonhap news agency said the North's state media released an undated photo of who they say is Kim watching a football match between two army-affiliated teams.

The photo posted on Yonhap's website showed a smiling Kim sitting inside a building and watching something through a window. Scenes of a football match, athletes and the audience stand were not shown in the photo.

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.