Kim Jong-un’s longest absence in seven years sparks fresh health rumours after despot goes missing for over a month

KIM Jong-un has not been seen for more than a month amid fresh speculation about his health — his longest absence for seven years. The North Korean despot has not been seen since a huge missile exhibition 30 days ago.  ReutersKim Jong-un’s last public appearance at the Defence Development Exhibition, in Pyongyang[/caption] North Korean observers said his absence is the longest period of absence since 201. It follows reports about his health which were made earlier this year. His last appearance on state media is believed to have taken place on October 12  This was during coverage of a huge missile exhibition in Pyongyang the day before. But since then NK News reports he has not been seen on state channels yet satellite imagery has shown increased activity at his east coast beach house and a lakeside mansion near the capital. Observers claim this is his longest absence for seven years amid speculation in recent months. Most read in The Sun OH NEOW I had lip filler - and ended up with a mouth that looks like a cat’s bum DROP BOMBS My date called me a c*** before he met me - he sent me a text meant for his mate 'MY BOY' Becky Vardy devastated as her Celebrity Gogglebox co-star Boris dies OUT OF RANGE Steven Gerrard set to be named new Aston Villa boss after heading down south RON THE WAY Ronaldo 'could ask to LEAVE Man Utd if they don't qualify for next season's CL' GONNA GET GERR Aston Villa 'want to make Steven Gerrard new boss for less than £3m compo' Kim has taken at least seven breaks lasting at least two weeks in 2021, according to NK News.  He vanished from public view for long stretches in 2020. In June, Kim reappeared in public looking substantially thinner than before, following a nearly month-long absence.  The North Korean leader has sparked health fears in recent months after shedding more than 40 pounds as commentators questioned whether his weight loss is intentional or due to a grave illness. images of a trimmer Kim sporting a beige suit with a serious look on his face have now led to conspiracy theorists claiming he has been replaced by a lookalike. “Kim Jong-Un has been replaced by a lookalike,” one online sleuth wrote on Reddit. But many were quick to shoot down the whacky claim, saying Kim looks the same – just slimmer. One replied: “He lost that baby fat and is showing his grown man face?” Another added: “I was thinking the ears were identical. “So identical, in fact that I’m convinced this is just a slimmer, healthier Kim.” Last year, photos of Kim released 20 days after he mysteriously disappeared caused rumours the despot used a lookalike as some speculated the double could have been standing in due to the leader’s poor health, or even death. Sleuths pointed to slight differences in Kim’s nose, wrinkles, teeth, cupid’s bow, hairline and ears.  The latest body double claims come after it was reported North Korea is hunting for a Kim successor amid fears the tyrant’s health is failing after his sudden weight loss. Starving North Koreans are increasingly worried about the health of “emaciated” Kim in the wake of his dramatic weight loss after he used to top 22 stone, according to state media. And a prominent member of Kim’s entourage has now been tasked to find a successor for the dictator as rumours mount over his failing health. ReutersKim Jong Un speaks to officials next to military weapons and vehicles on display, including the country’s intercontinental ballistic missiles[/caption] APThe previous month Kim appeared to be cutting a dash[/caption] We pay for your stories! Do you have a story for The Sun news desk? Email us at exclusive@the-sun.co.uk or call 0207 782 4104. You can WhatsApp us on 07423 720 250. We pay for videos too. Click here to upload yours. Click here to get The Sun newspaper delivered for FREE for the next six weeks.