NK leader may have discussed potential talks with US during China visit: spy agency

Seoul's spy agency disclosed that North Korean leader Kim Jong-un may have discussed the possibility of U.S.-North Korea talks during his recent China visit. This assessment was made during a confidential parliamentary intelligence committee audit, according to lawmakers from the ruling Democratic Party of Korea and the main opposition People Power Party.

The National Intelligence Service (NIS) also suggested Kim's visit to China may have had a purpose beyond honoring Beijing's role in the Korean War. Notably, Kim was accompanied by senior diplomats like Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui, rather than military officials.

During his one-day trip to Dandong on Saturday, Kim met with Wang Huning, China's top political adviser, and paid a visit to a war memorial. This visit unfolded as North Korea and China endeavored to strengthen their bilateral relations. The trip coincided with preparations for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in China's Shenzhen next month, where U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to attend. Trump has shown interest in potential dialogue between the United States and North Korea.