N Koreans pay tribute to Kim Jong-il
New North Korean ruler Kim Jong-un pays his respects to his father and former leader Kim Jong-il lying in state at the Kumsusan Memorial Palace, Pyongyang, North Korea.
People and high-ranking officials in North Korea have paid tribute to the country's deceased leader Kim Jong-il lying in state in the capital Pyongyang.
The North Korean state television aired images of the ceremony in which the country's new leader, Kim Jong-un, was also present.
"Comrade Kim Jong-un... paid a visit to the body of comrade Kim Jong-il together with party, government and military officials and expressed condolences with the deepest sorrow," a government statement said.
The 69-year-old Kim, who ruled the country since 1994, died on Saturday of a "severe myocardial infarction along with a heart attack."
State media has referred to Kim Jong-un, the ex-leader's third son, as the “great successor,” indicating that the young leader has cemented his grip on power.
Meanwhile, China has announced its readiness to receive Kim Jong-un as the new leader of North Korea.
Chinese President Hu Jintao also on Tuesday visited the North Korean embassy in Beijing to express his condolences.
North Korea is set to hold an official funeral ceremony for the late leader on December 28.
DB/AZ/HJL
