Ri Sol-ju, the wife of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, appeared in state media for the first time in nearly five months on Wednesday, as the ruling family minimizes its public appearances amid the coronavirus pandemic. The official Korean Central News Agency reported that Kim and Ri attended a performance at the Mansudae Art Theatre in the capital, Pyongyang, to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
She was last seen publicly on September 9 when she accompanied her husband on a visit to the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, which houses the preserved bodies of Kim's late grandfather and father, in commemoration of the country's founding anniversary.
The agency stated: "When (Kim) appeared in the theater hall with his wife Ri Sol-ju amid welcoming music, the audience's cheers resounded," adding that the couple went on stage after the performance to shake hands with the artists and take photos with them.
Ri had previously attracted international attention as she often accompanied Kim at social, commercial, and even military events, which is a stark contrast to his father, Kim Jong-il, who was rarely seen publicly with any of his wives.
She had been absent from state media for over a year before her appearance at a music concert last February, prompting speculation about her health and a possible pregnancy.
South Korea's National Intelligence Service informed lawmakers that she seemingly refrained from outdoor activities to prevent COVID-19 infection, but she "plays well with her children." The intelligence agency believes that Kim and Ri have three children, but not much is known about them.
North Korea has not confirmed any COVID-19 cases, but it closed its borders and imposed strict restrictions, including travel limitations.
