Kim Jong Il seeking China's endorsement over handover of power to son?

Beijing, Aug 26 (ANI): North Korean leader Kim Jong Il was reported to be traveling to China by train with his youngest son Kim Jong-un on Thursday, who is expected to be named his successor.

In a trip shrouded in mystery and speculation, North Korean leader Kim Jong Il appeared Thursday to be traveling to China by train with his youngest son, according to a South Korean government official, reports Los Angeles Times.

The official, who preferred anonymity, said Kim's movement was detected by the intelligence.

"The trip might be associated with the anticipated handover of power in the secretive regime. Signs have been detected that Chairman Kim visited China early Thursday morning. We are still trying to grasp his exact destination and the purpose of the visit," South Korea's Yonhap news service quoted an official as saying.

Earlier in May this year, Kim embarked on a five-day journey for a summit with Chinese President Hu Jintao.

The Chinese Government, however, had no immediate comment on the eports of a visit on Thursday, as Kim's rare trips outside North Korea to the ally nation are publicly confirmed only after they end. (ANI)