Kim Jong-un’s train spotted again in Wonsan as speculation continues over North Korean leader’s absence

Kim has not appeared in North Korean state media since April 12, provoking intense speculation about his health

Pompeo says the US has caught no sight of Kim and there is a real risk of famine in the country amid the coronavirus outbreak

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A satellite image taken on April 15 shows North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s train in Wonsan. Photo: 38 North/Reuters

Published: 2:45pm, 30 Apr 2020Updated: 11:59pm, 30 Apr 2020

A train resembling the one used by Kim Jong-un was spotted again near a coastal leadership compound, according to satellite imagery analysed by 38 North, as the North Korean leader’s unusual absence from public continued.

The special train was seen on Wednesday parked at a station near the eastern resort area of Wonsan where it had been repeatedly spotted since April 21, 38 North reported, adding that it could not be considered as proof of Kim’s presence.

Speculation about Kim’s whereabouts have focused on the area, where a top South Korean foreign policy adviser said he is been staying – “alive and well” – since April 13.

Additional satellite imagery reviewed by the website NK Pro showed boats similar to those associated with the North Korean leader active in the waters near Wonsan throughout this month.

The craft made unusual movements on April 14, when North Korea fired off a flurry of short-range missiles.

Kim, 36, has been the subject of global speculation since reports emerged April 20 that he had undergone a cardiovascular procedure the previous week.