North Korean leader's train 'may be in Russia'

SEOUL - A special train used by Kim Jong-il was spotted heading toward Russia, raising speculation the North Korean leader may be making a rare overseas trip, a South Korean daily reported on Friday.

The Chosun Ilbo cited a source as saying witnesses in northeastern North Korea saw one of the heavily armoured, well-equipped trains that Kim uses for his visits overseas passing the northeast border and on a route that would soon take it to Russia.

The paper did not say exactly when the trip may have taken place, but indicated it may have occurred in recent days.

South Korean officials said they could not verify the report.

Regional powers have expressed concern in recent days over signs North Korea may be preparing to test a long-range missile, with Washington, Tokyo and Seoul saying a launch would present a grave danger to security.

Moscow summoned North Korea's ambassador on Thursday to explain reports on the possible launch.

Kim used special trains for trips to Russia that took place in 2001 and 2002.

- REUTERS