North Korean web of deceit
Updated on 08 July 2009
North Korea is blamed for "attacking" American websites as the country's elusive leader Kim Jong-il makes a rare public appearance.
Dozens of websites have been attacked including that of the White House according to South Korean authorities which has accused what it called "North Korean elements" of carrying out cyberwarfare.
The country's intelligence service claimed hackers tried to jam US and South Korean websites knocking them out of service.
It all comes on the day North Korea's frail and elusive leader made a rare public appearance at a state ceremony.
Kim Jong-il appeared on state television as the communist state marked the anniversary of the death of his father and state founder Kim Il-sung.
North Korean TV showed recorded footage of the event taking place, with Kim looking thin and aloof, but he earlier appeared alert and walked briskly on stage followed by military and government officials.
Kim has had an active public profile in recent months since re-emerging after a suspected stroke last year.
The leader's illness raised questions about succession in Asia's only communist dynasty. Media reports have said Kim has anointed his youngest son, Jong-un, to take over.
