Kim Yong Nam, North Korea’s former nominal head of state, has died at the age of 97. He served as the President of the Presidium of the Supreme People’s Assembly from 1998 to 2019 and was a key figure in North Korea’s diplomatic engagements and state functions.

Although his role was largely ceremonial, Kim often represented North Korea at international events, meeting foreign leaders and participating in global summits. His passing marks the end of an era for one of the country’s longest-serving officials.

No official cause of death has been disclosed. North Korean state media is expected to announce funeral arrangements and tributes in the coming days.