President Kim Asks Pope to Visit North Korea

On March 4 President Kim Dae-jung made an official visit to the Vatican. Blue House spokesman Park June-young revealed that during his audience with Pope John Paul II, President Kim suggested "a papal visit to North Korea."
Mr. Park explained that the President suggested the pontiff visit North Korea because it would contribute to peace efforts, not only on the Korea peninsula, but also to stability in Asia and the world in general.
To this, His Holiness replied that he did not yet have any plans to go to North Korea, but added that he would be happy to visit to help bring about peace. Mr. Park pointed out that the visit holds strong possibilities.
Afterwards, the Pope stated that he actively supported President Kim's efforts in helping North Korea which has been continuing under extreme circumstances. The Pope furthered this with an appeal to the international community to continue helping North Koreans.

by Kim Jin-kook