Tue Nov 04 01:37:25 UTC 2025: Summary:

Kim Yong Nam, North Korea’s former nominal head of state and a long-time loyalist to the ruling Kim family, has died at the age of 97. He served as the head of the Supreme People’s Assembly for two decades and was a prominent figure in North Korean diplomacy. Known for his deep voice and propaganda-filled speeches, he often represented North Korea at important events and greeted foreign dignitaries. Kim Yong Nam’s loyalty to the Kim dynasty allowed him to hold the largely ceremonial position of head of state. His career highlights include reading an elegy for Kim Il Sung, nominating Kim Jong Il to a key position, and attending the Pyeongchang Olympics in 2018, signaling a period of diplomatic openness.

News Article:

Kim Yong Nam, Longtime North Korean Official, Dies at 97

Pyongyang, North Korea – Kim Yong Nam, the former nominal head of state of North Korea and a dedicated loyalist to the Kim family, has died at the age of 97, state media announced Tuesday. The Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported that Kim passed away on Monday due to multiple organ failure related to cancer.

Kim Yong Nam served as head of the Supreme People’s Assembly, North Korea’s parliament, from 1998 to 2019, a position that made him the country’s nominal head of state despite the Kim dynasty holding the true power. Known for his booming voice and unwavering support of the regime, Kim was a prominent figure in North Korean diplomacy and frequently represented the country at international events.

Kim Jong Un visited Kim Yong Nam’s bier to express his condolences. A funeral is scheduled for Thursday.

Kim Yong Nam’s career included reading an elegy for the country’s founder, Kim Il Sung, and formally nominating Kim Jong Il to a key position. He also played a role in a brief period of diplomatic engagement, attending the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics in South Korea alongside Kim Jong Un’s sister, Kim Yo Jong.

Kim Yong Nam’s influence reportedly waned in recent years, and he was replaced as head of the parliament in April 2019 by Choe Ryong Hae. He studied at Kim Il Sung University and Moscow State University. His death marks the end of a long career dedicated to serving the Kim dynasty.

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