Kim Jong Un 'Sexiest Man' story fools Chinese newspaper

The online version of China's Communist Party newspaper has fallen for a spoof report on US satirical website, The Onion, which named North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un the "Sexiest Man Alive".

Following the hoax, the People's Daily ran a 55-page photo spread on its website yesterday in a tribute to the leader under the headline "North Korea's top leader named The Onion's Sexiest Man Alive for 2012".

It quoted The Onion's article, which read: "With his devastatingly handsome, round face, his boyish charm, and strong, sturdy frame, this Pyongyang-bred heartthrob is every woman's dream come true. Blessed with an air of power that masks an unmistakable cute, cuddly side.

"Kim made this newspaper's editorial board swoon with his impeccable fashion sense, chic short hairstyle, and that famous smile."

Among the photos the People's Daily used was Kim on horseback squinting into the light and Kim waving towards a military parade.

The People's Daily could not be reached for comment yesterday.