 The attention of South Korean officials once again focused on the whereabouts of North Korea`s reclusive leader Kim Jong Il amid media reports he may be secretly visiting China to meet President Hu Jintao. If it is true, Kim`s trip could provide a crucial momentum to resolve the security crisis on the Korean peninsula fueled by the North`s recent missile tests and reported moves toward a nuclear test, officials and analysts say.
| “The North Korean leader has used a special train rather than aircraft for visits to China or Russia because of his alleged fear of flying...” |
According to news reports in Seoul. South Korean officials obtained intelligence that a special train used by Kim was seen crossing the North`s northeast border with China on Tuesday. 'There is intelligence that the United States or Russia have confirmed through satellite photography that a special North Korean train was moving in China,' a South Korean government source was quoted as saying. The source said, however, it was not clear whether Kim was aboard the train. Seoul`s YTN television also said the government has received intelligence reports that the special train headed for China. The North Korean leader has used a special train rather than aircraft for visits to China or Russia because of his alleged fear of flying.
| Cue the saboteurs, the missile launch, and the banjo playing 'Orange Blossom Special' ... |
Rumors of Kim`s possible visit to China had been earlier reported from Seoul and Tokyo last week. South Korea`s most influential Chosun Ilbo newspaper said that a senior military official from the North was staying in Beijng to discuss summit talks with Hu slated for this week. 'Authorities in Seoul and Washington were briefed that Kim Jong Il is to take a three-day trip to China around Aug. 30,' it said, citing sources. The semi-official Yonhap News Agency reported that the Chinese government has invited Kim Jong Il to visit 'as soon as possible.' Japan`s Sankei Shimbun newspaper also said Kim was expected to travel to China this week, citing multiple sources. |