Japanese media say that North Korea was apparently trying to set the public at ease when its official news agency reported that leader Kim Jong-il made a public appearance at a soccer game.

Earlier on Saturday, the North’s official Korean Central News Agency said that Kim watched a soccer game at Kim Il-sung University to mark the school’s 62nd anniversary. It was the first report of a public appearance by the reclusive leader since speculation arose that he had suffered a stroke.

The Yomiuri Shimbun said Monday that North Korean media released over the weekend reports on Kim’s doings amid rumors of failing health, while the Sankei Shimbun said the North apparently issued the report in an attempt to halt speculation over Kim’s health.

The Sankei report, in particular, said Pyongyang may have intentionally issued the report to demonstrate that Kim is in good health.

Kim's last public appearance was on August 14, when he inspected a military unit.