September : Religious officials report Kim 's absence at Friday prayers . Kim 's name is missing from a list of attendees at a shrine visit . The North Korean leader was unable to attend the annual ceremony at his father 's shrine . Because not much is known about North Korea 's internal politics , observers scrutinize public functions and ceremonies to see who appears and who does not . Kim has n't been seen in weeks ; he 'd been expected to attend Workers ' Party ceremonies .
September : Religious officials report Kim 's absence at Friday prayers . Kim 's name is missing from a list of attendees at a shrine visit . The North Korean leader was unable to attend the annual ceremony at his father 's shrine . Kim has n't been seen in weeks ; he 'd been expected to attend Workers ' Party ceremonies .