Staff at a supermarket that saw North Korean leader Kim Jong-il’s last public visit are “throwing themselves into each other's arms and wailing over his death,” state news agency KCNA has said.
Kim visited the supermarket in the North Korean capital, Pyongyang, a short time before his death from a heart attack on December 17, KCNA said.
He was accompanied by his son and successor, Kim Jong-un.
“All Koreans are lamenting over the unexpected demise of leader Kim Jong Il, the great loss to the nation. Among them are officials and employees of the Kwangbok Area Supermarket recently visited by Kim Jong-il,” North Korea’s KCNA said.
“They are throwing themselves into each other's arms and wailing over his death, saying it was just a few days ago when they saw him full of bean,” the article went on.
“When Kim Jong Il said he was somewhat relieved to see the modern supermarket, they clung to his sleeves in happiness,” KCNA added.
A staff member told the agency that Kim had appeared in bad health during his visit.
“When he actually came to my counter, I was so happy and made a bow to him. But finding his haggard face, I could hardly hold back tears, "the agency also quoted supermarket employee Kim Kyong Suk, 39, as saying.
Song Su Ryon, 24, a saleswoman of the supermarket, said "I can not believe that he really passed away. I wish that time would turn back so that he can come back to us."
Kim is currenty lying in state in the Kumsusan Memorial Palace on the outskirts of Pyongyang. His funeral will take place there on December 28, North Korean officials say.
