North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has recorded his second-most reclusive first half to a year since coming to power, NK Pro analysis shows, distancing himself from economic matters as state propaganda sends mixed messages on the health of the economy. 

Only 27 out of the first 181 editions of the ruling party daily Rodong Sinmun have reported on new appearances by Kim this year, only slightly more than a record low of 19 in the first half of 2020. He averaged 50 appearances per first half in the other 10 years of his rule, according to the NK Pro Leadership Tracker.[/p