The Recent Controversy Between Kristi Noem and Kim Jong Un.

South Dakota Governor Kristi Noem reportedly wrote in her new memoir that she recently encountered the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un—but later said the anecdote shouldn’t have been in the book and would be "changed."

In No Going Back: The Truth on What’s Wrong with US Politics and How We Move America Forward, Noem wrote that she encountered the North Korean leader while in Congress as South Dakota’s representative, according to reliable news outlets which got a hold of a copy of the book ahead of its publication on May 7. The Dakota Scout reported the news on May 2, which was then picked up by other outlets. 

“I had the chance to travel to many countries to meet with world leaders—some who wanted our help, and some who didn’t,” the New York Times also quoted, “I remember when I met Kim Jong Un. 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). Dealing with foreign leaders takes resolve, preparation, and determination.”

After doubt was visible during the interaction, Noem and her spokesperson Ian Fury told news outlets the statement shouldn’t have been in the book and would be fixed ahead of publication.