North Korean leader Kim Jong-un gained around 30 kg over the last five years and now weighs apparently close to 130 kg.
A government official said Friday, "By analyzing Kim Jong-un's body shape and gait, we estimated he weighed less than 100 kg when he first appeared in public in September of 2010 but then rapidly put on weight."
He said the clearest signs are his belly and double chin. "When he’s standing while holding his hands behind his back, you can see his abdomen protruding, and his chin folds when he is spotted giving orders."
Another government source here said Kim rapidly put on weight after the execution of his uncle and former eminence grise Jang Song-taek in December of 2013. "Heavy drinking and overeating due to stress appears to be the main reasons," he added.
Others believe Kim put on weight on purpose in order to look more like his grandfather, plump nation founder Kim Il-sung.
Meanwhile, Kim plans to hand out special bonuses to the public marking the 70th anniversary of the Workers Party on Oct. 10. The bonus is apparently equivalent to a month's household living expenses.
