North Korean leader Kim Jong-il is probably still in hospital, but capable of making decisions, according to Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso.
Mr Aso said intelligence reports showed Mr Kim's condition was not good and he was being treated by a French surgeon.
Mr Kim's health has been the subject of intense speculation since he failed to appear at a key parade in September.
US and South Korean officials say he may have suffered a stroke, but the North says this is a lie.
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BBC NEWS | Asia-Pacific | North Korean leader 'in hospital'