Kim apparently came here on his way to Latin American countries. Observers say that Kim is likely to meet Chinese officials, though it is not yet known how long he will stay in Beijing.

The North's official Korean Central News Agency said Sunday the titular head of state will lead a delegation to Cuba, Venezuela and Mexico.

North Korea and Cuba have strengthened their diplomatic engagement this year. Choe Ryong-hae and Ri Su-yong, vice chairmen of the ruling party's Central Committee, visited Havana in July and August, respectively.

Early this month Cuban President Miguel Mario Diaz-Canel Bermudez made a three-day trip to Pyongyang. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un sent him off in a show of his commitment to friendly ties with Cuba.

The KCNA said Kim Yong-nam will also attend the inaugural ceremony of Mexico's president-elect Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, scheduled for Dec. 1. (Yonhap)