Kim Jong-il Turns 69 and 70

Today is 16th February Korean local time and Kim Jong-il celebrates both his 69th and 70th birthdays. However with inter-Korean diplomacy continually breaking down; the recent major incidents regarding the ROKS Cheonan and shelling of Yeonpyeong Island; as well as his deteriorating health, it is unsure what the next few years will bring for the North Korean dictator.

Kim Jong-il was born on 16th February 1941, but this was officially changed to 1942 for publicity reasons to keep an even 30 year age difference between him and his father, Kim Il-sung.

There has been much speculation over the dictator's health, as he had heart surgery in 2007 and has suffered several strokes in the last 4 years. A statement released by Wikileaks in 2010 also reported that he suffers from epilepsy. Kim himself, likely aware of his age and deteriorating health, has apparently already appointed an heir-apparent - Kim Jong-un, his youngest son, who is a general in the KPA.

Despite his probable frailty, it is certain that Pyongyang in particular will be a source of much merriment tonight as the Kim and his acolytes celebrate lavishly in private while festivals are thrown for the North Korean public to demonstrate their respect and joy for their Dear Leader.