Kim Yong Nam, a lifelong loyalist to North Korea’s ruling family and former nominal head of state, has died at 97 from multiple organ failure related to cancer. He served as head of the Supreme People’s Assembly for over two decades and was known for his prominent role in state diplomacy, including attending the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics. His death was acknowledged by Kim Jong Un, who expressed condolences. Kim Yong Nam’s influence declined in recent years, culminating in his replacement in 2019.
