(LEAD) N. Korean Embassy in China undergoes renovation amid closer Pyongyang-Beijing ties

Recent expansion and renovation work at the North Korean Embassy in Beijing appears to be linked to the strengthening ties and growing high-level exchanges between Pyongyang and Beijing, sources revealed on Thursday. The interior expansion work encompassed two buildings, including dormitory facilities, with some construction detected around the same time as North Korean leader Kim Jong-un's surprise visit to the Chinese city of Dandong last month.

Construction safety netting was observed around the embassy compound and its main gate, while sources suggested that Pyongyang had sought contributions from North Koreans residing in China to help with the expenses. Renovation efforts at the embassy have often garnered attention, as they may indicate preparations for a potential visit by Kim to Beijing, considering that state leaders typically visit their country's diplomatic missions during overseas trips.

This renovation work unfolded as North Korea and China have intensified efforts to bolster bilateral relations through a series of high-level exchanges.