North Korea’s former nominal head of state and long-time close aide to the Kim family, Kim Yong Nam, has died at the age of 97 following multiple organ failure caused by cancer-related complications, according to state media reports.
The state-run Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) confirmed on Tuesday that Kim passed away on Monday after battling severe cancer complications.
“Comrade Kim Yong Nam was an elder-generation revolutionary who made extraordinary contributions to the history of our Party and nation. At the age of 97, he has brought his noble life to an end,” the KCNA reported.
North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visited the late politician’s body on Tuesday morning to pay his respects and express condolences. His funeral is scheduled to take place on Thursday.
For more than two decades, Kim Yong Nam served as the head of North Korea’s parliament, the Supreme People’s Assembly, and was regarded as a senior diplomat and a devoted loyalist to the Kim dynasty. Known for his deep and commanding voice, he frequently delivered passionate speeches promoting the regime’s ideology.
He was often seen greeting foreign dignitaries on behalf of Kim Jong Un and his late father, Kim Jong Il, reflecting his central role in North Korea’s ceremonial diplomacy.
Although not a member of the ruling Kim family, Kim Yong Nam remained in his post as the country’s ceremonial leader for over 20 years due to his unwavering loyalty to the regime.
From 1998 until April 2019, he served as President of the Presidium of the Supreme People’s Assembly — a position considered equivalent to that of the formal head of state. However, as has been the case since North Korea’s founding in 1948, true power has always rested with the Kim family.