North Korean dictator Kim Jong Il has died at the age of 69, the BBC is reporting. The state government confirmed the news on December 19, 2011 via television, saying the leader died two days prior. Television reports said the official cause of death was a “severe myocardial infarction along with a heart attack,” which he suffered while on a train for one of his field guidance tours.
Jong Il’s younger son, Kim Jong-un, has been named as his successor. North Koreans have been told to unite behind him. He will serve as the leader of his father’s funeral committee. A period of national mourning has been declared between December 17 and 29, with the funeral being held on December 28 in Pyongyang.
Following the announcement of Jong Il’s death, South Korea put its armed forces on high alert. The Japanese government has also convened a special security meeting. North Korea’s biggest ally and trading partner, China, expressed shock at the news of the leader’s death. The country pledged to continue making “active contributions to peace and stability on the Korean peninsula.”
Jong Il, who served as North Korea’s second leader, and was the son of the country’s founder, Kim Jong-il, was named a demi-god by his country. He was also credited with superhuman powers of wisdom, leadership and military prowess.
Written by: Karen Benardello
