North Korean founder Kim Il-sung’s younger brother, Kim Yong-ju, has died at the age of 101. 

The North’s Korean Central News Agency(KCNA) said Wednesday that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un expressed his deep condolences over the death of his grandfather’s brother while a wreath he sent was laid on his altar Tuesday. 

The state media outlet did not offer details of his death, including when and how he died. 

Born in 1920, Kim Yong-ju was once the No. 2 North Korean official next to his brother before losing power to Kim Il-sung’s successor, Kim Jong-il. His passing came just before the 10th anniversary of Kim Jong-il's death on Friday. 

Kim Yong-ju formerly served as an honorary vice chairman of the standing committee of the Supreme People’s Assembly.

[Photo : YONHAP News]