Former basketball star Dennis Rodman says North Korean leader Kim Jong Un did not execute his uncle Jang Song Thaek.
In fact, Rodman says he saw Thaek on one of his famous trips to North Korea.
North Korean state media confirmed in December 2013 Thaek was purged on allegations of corruption, drug use and a long list of other "anti-state" acts. Reports from North Korean state media claimed he was executed.
But Rodman said that's not the case in an interview with DuJour magazine:
[Dennis Rodman]: You could say anything here about North Korea and people would believe it. The last time I went there, when they said they killed his girlfriend, they killed his uncle, they just fed him to the dogs... They were standing right behind me.
DuJour: You’re saying that the uncle that the North Korean government itself confirms was executed is actually alive?
DR: He was standing right there.
Rodman has touted his relationship with Kim Jong Un, calling the North Korean leader his "best friend." He has previously brushed off criticisms of his trips to North Korea, saying he doesn't "give a rats ass." (Rodman checked into rehab in January after making those remarks.)
For more from Rodman, head over to DuJour.
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