Two North Korean defector-turned-lawmakers have issued apologies over remarks they made regarding leader Kim Jong-un's health.
Thae Yong-ho, who won a parliamentary seat during last month’s general elections, apologized for saying that one thing for certain is that Kim cannot stand up by himself or walk properly.
In a statement on Monday, Thae promised to carry out parliamentary activities in a more prudent and modest manner, adding he felt a deep sense of responsibility for the impact his remarks could have had as a lawmaker.
Ji Seong-ho, who also won a seat in the National Assembly, also apologized after claiming that he was 99 percent sure of Kim's death.
Ji said he will behave more carefully as a public figure from now on.
Ending rumors over his health, North Korean state-run media outlets reported Saturday that leader Kim attended a fertilizer factory completion ceremony a day prior for his first public appearance after a 20-day absence, which sparked speculation about his health.
<Photo: Yonhap News>
