The Associated Press says North Korean leader Kim Jong-il may be seriously ill.

Quoting a Western intelligence official, the AP said there is reason to believe the reclusive leader has suffered a serious health setback, possibly a stroke.

The report came after Kim failed to appear at a national celebration marking the 60th anniversary of North Korea's founding Tuesday.

Kim reportedly made his last public appearance on August 12. There have been rumors about the state of Kim's health since mid-August.

A senior U.S. official said, however, the United States could not independently confirm that the North Korean leader is ill.