[AmericanInTokyo]

I have several conflicting theories. If I had more information, like a lot of folks here, I'd come to some stronger conclusions for you. Sorry. Very murky indeed.

[the Real fifi]

Well, please keep us informed--The Peterson trial is over and there 's nothing much to compete with it except this..LOL ;^)

[Drammach]

First off, I would say that Kim Jong Il has "disappeared" before, sometimes for extended periods..
Whether it's paranoia or a game he plays, not sure..

Second, a possibility..
He's preparing to "retire", and turn rule of the country over to his son.. ( 2nd wife, younger brother? )
This would probably be a "transitional" turnover, much like his was..
Reason? Possibly health reasons.. Possible Mental health..
Loss of Father, Mother, 2 ? wives, since '94, may have taken it's toll on him.. ( I get the idea he suffers from severe bouts of depression.. )

Despite all of the derisive remarks, Kim is not a stupid man, if reports from russian sources are true..
He is, according to those reports, quite intelligent.

Possibly he sees a need for a "percieved" regime change in order for N. Korea to survive, in the short term.
He undoubtedly knows N. Korea has no hope of surviving in the long term..