Mystery of Kim Jong-un's whereabouts intensifies after leader misses key ceremony

The mystery of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's whereabouts has intensified after he missed a ceremony to pay tribute to his late father and grandfather marking the 69th anniversary of the founding of the ruling Workers' Party on Friday. According to CNN, Kim's name had been missing from the list of attendees at the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun in Pyongyang.

The leader's "no-show" has led to speculations that all may not be well in North Korea. Kim's prolonged absence has led to a rumour that his mysterious sister, Kim Yo Jong, who was already in a powerful position as deputy director of the Workers' Party, may be ruling the country.

However, according to a source with access to the secretive North's leadership, Kim was still in firm control of his government. Kim was last seen at an event on 3 September with his wife and has not made any appearances since then.