In Pics: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's drastic weight loss

In recent state media photos, North Korea's leader Kim Jong Un has appeared to have undergone drastic weight loss. Some North Korea watchers said Kim, who is about 170 centimeters (5 feet, 8 inches) tall and has previously weighed 140 kilograms (308 pounds), may have lost 10-20 kilograms (22-44 pounds).

Kim, known for heavy drinking and smoking, comes from a family with a history of heart problems. His father and grandfather, who ruled North Korea before him, both died of heart issues.

Kim Jong Un had returned on June 4 after a month-long absence, looking thinner. Rumors about his health began in 2014 after he disappeared for six weeks.

The residents are heartbroken over Kim's weight loss and are concerned about his health. "Our people’s hearts ached most when we saw (Kim’s) emaciated looks," North Korean state TV cited the unidentified male resident.

Some analysts in Seoul have said that Kim is likely to have gone on a diet to improve his health, while others speculated that his weight loss might be related to health issues.