Questions about the reclusive dictator's health flared after he missed an April 15 commemoration of the 108th birthday of his grandfather, the Hermit Kingdom's founder Kim Il Sung.

On Wednesday, North Korean state media published some past comments by Kim without mentioning his current whereabouts — while rival South Korea repeated that no unusual developments had been detected in the North.

But even if the 36-year-old overweight despot isn't moribund, he does have health issues and a possible end to his rule would create turmoil, experts told the Military Times.

Although Kim has no named successor or heir apparent, his younger sister — senior ruling party official Kim Yo Jong — appears to be the most likely candidate to step in.

However, some experts believe a collective leadership, which could end the family's dynastic rule, also could be possible.

The lack of a designated heir means there will be "chaos, human suffering, instability," retired South Korean special operations chief Lt. Gen. Chun In-Bum told Military Times. "It's bad news for everyone."