Unification Minister Kim Ha-joong says it is inappropriate to continue to mention rumors of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il’s illness until Pyongyang confirms the claims.

Before the National Assembly Committee on Foreign Affairs, Trade and Unification Thursday, Kim said that making further comments on the matter would be seen as a hostile act of slander towards the North Korean leader.

Kim also said that such comments would not contribute to inter-Korean relations, noting that Pyongyang still denies Kim’s illness.

The minister added that no unusual signs or movements have been spotted in the North.