DPRK's Kim makes first public appearance in 40 days

Kim Jong-un gives field guidance in a newly built residential district. [Photo/IC]

PYONGYANG - Top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) Kim Jong-un has gave field guidance to a newly built residential district, the official KCNA news agency reported Tuesday, his first public appearance in about 40 days.

Kim has not been seen in public since he watched the performance of the Moranbong Band with his wife Ri Sol Ju here at the Mansudae Art Theater on Sept 3. His longest absence from public events since he took power has drawn the world's attention and fueled speculations about his health.

The KCNA reported in the report dated Tuesday that Kim expressed satisfaction after he learned in detail about the construction of the newly built Wisong Scientists Residential District.

"Watching the exterior of the apartment houses and public buildings nicely decorated with diverse color tiles, he was very pleased to see them. He said they looked very attractive, presenting fantastic scenery," the report said.

Kim also visited the newly built Natural Energy Institute of the State Academy of Sciences on the same day, the state media said, without giving the exact date he made the visits.