Report: North Korean special train arrives in China amid speculation of visit by Kim Jong Il

Report: NKorean special train arrives in China

SEOUL, South Korea — A North Korean special train arrived in a Chinese border city early Saturday amid speculation of a visit to the country by leader Kim Jong Il, a news report said.

It was not confirmed whether Kim was aboard though he appeared to be, Yonhap news agency reported, citing an unidentified government source. The train that arrived in Dandong (1850 GMT) also could be an advance train preceding a trip by Kim, the South Korean source also was quoted as saying.

The National Intelligence Service, South Korea’s main spy agency, said it was checking the report.

South Korean media reported earlier this week that several North Korean and Chinese officials were seen checking a rail bridge in Dandong.

South Korean presidential spokeswoman Kim Eun-hye also told reporters Wednesday there was a high possibility that Kim Jong Il would pay a visit to China.

The reclusive leader rarely travels abroad — and only under tight security. He last visited China in January 2006.

The report of Kim’s possible trip to China, which has been a key ally of North Korea, comes as the United States and regional powers are pressing North Korea to rejoin stalled negotiations aimed at ending its nuclear weapons programs.