Kim Jong-un’s wife appears first time in a year

Ri Sol-ju joined her husband at a concert on Tuesday to mark the birthday of Kim’s late father and former leader, Kim Jong-il, reports BBC.

Ms Ri has often accompanied Mr Kim to major events in the past, but had not been seen since January last year.

Her absence stoked speculation over her health or a potential pregnancy.

South Korea’s National Intelligence Service had reportedly told congressmen yesterday that Ms Ri was avoiding appearing in public due to concerns over Covid-19 and may have been spending time with her children.

North Korea has not officially reported any Covid-19 cases – though experts say this is unlikely.

According to the Rodong Sinmun, the couple entered the Mansudae Art Theatre together on Tuesday to “thunderous cheers”.

Photos showed the couple laughing – as well as a conspicuous lack of masks or social distancing measures.

Yonhap news quoting state media reported that Mr Kim had earlier in the day also visited the Kumusan Palace of the Sun, where the bodies of his father and grandfather lie, to lay wreaths for their anniversary, known as the Day of the Shining Star.

State media also once again referred to Mr Kim as “President” – a departure from his usual official title, which is “Chairman”.

The title of president was first used by North Korea’s Central News Agency last week.