N Korean leader Kim Jong-il dies

LONDON. December 19. KAZINFORM North Korean leader Kim Jong-il has died, state-run TV has announced.

His death was announced in an emotional statement read out on national television, BBC News reports.

The announcer, wearing black, said he had died on Saturday of physical and mental over-work. Kim Jong-il was 69 and believed to have suffered ill health for many years.

The BBC's Lucy Williamson in Seoul says his death will cause huge shock waves across North Korea.

His son Kim Jong-un has been suggested as a likely successor although nothing has yet been announced in the highly secretive state.

To learn more go to www.bbc.co.uk