Noem’s publisher to cut Kim Jong Un passage from memoir after controversy

Republican South Dakota Gov. Kristi Noem’s book publisher, Center Street, stated it will be removing a passage from reprints of her upcoming memoir titled “No Going Back.” The passage in question is where Noem claims she met North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

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“I remember when I met with North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un,” Noem wrote in the book. “I’m sure he underestimated me, having no clue about my experience staring down little tyrants (I’d been a children’s pastor, after all).”

Noem appeared on CBS News’ “Face the Nation” the morning of Sunday, May 5, to address the issue. Margaret Brennan asked her if she’s ever met Kim Jong Un.

“Well, you know, as soon as this was brought to my attention, I certainly made some changes and looked at this passage and I’ve met with many, many world leaders, I’ve traveled around the world,” Noem responded. “As soon as it was brought to my attention, we went forward and have made some edits so I’m glad this book is being released in a couple of days and those edits will be in place.”

Noem did not give a direct answer if she had ever met the North Korean dictator. Noem claimed in her book she had met Kim while she was traveling. However, she visited China in 2014 when she was serving on the House Armed Services Committee while in Congress and there’s no public record of her meeting with Kim.

On May 5, Center Street released a statement saying it would be removing the passage at the request of the governor. The passage will also be edited “as soon as technically possible on the audio and eBook editions.”

This isn’t the only controversy related to Noem’s memoir. She also admitted to shooting and killing her 14-month-old dog Cricket, causing widespread backlash from both Democrats and Republicans.

Noem’s book is due out on Tuesday, May 7.