The presidential office of Cheong Wa Dae on Wednesday reiterated that President Roh Moo-hyun is willing to hold a summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong-il even if it is near the end of Mr. Roh's term.

However, presidential spokesman Chun Ho-sun denied any progress regarding an inter-Korean summit.

Chun said that Cheong Wa Dae is reviewing the progress made to resolve the North Korean nuclear issue as well as the question of whether a summit would improve inter-Korean relations. It is also weighing the optimal timing of a summit, if such a meeting is to be held.

Denying news reports about possible changes in the president's attitude toward a summit, Chun reiterated that he would seek a summit when one is most needed.