Seoul, July 8 (DPA) North Korean leader Kim Jong Il made a rare public appearance Wednesday at a memorial ceremony for his father, the country's late founder, on the 15th anniversary of his death.

Kim, 67, was shown by North Korea's Chosun TV walking into a Pyongyang auditorium, taking his seat and mourning his father at the ceremony that was attended by hundreds of military officers and senior government officials.

Kim walked with a slight limp and appeared visibly aged. One side of his mouth was slightly raised on his usual poker face.

Kim, 67, is thought to have suffered a stroke last year.

His public appearance was the first since he attended the April 11 meeting of Communist Party members.

Communist officials used the occasion to praise his leadership.

'The recent launches of rockets and nuclear tests represent an epochal victory of our people, as they were prepared under his leadership of strong faith, will and courage.