The government is considering North Korea’s proposal that President Roh Moo-hyun and his delegation attend the Arirang Festival during their visit to Pyongyang early next month.

North Korea reportedly conveyed the proposal to a South Korean summit advance team currently in Pyongyang to make preparations for the upcoming inter-Korean summit.

In response to the offer, the team told North Korean officials that Seoul will decide on the matter after consultations.

Meanwhile, Unification Minister Lee Jae-joung confirmed the North’s proposal during a regular news briefing on Thursday, adding that Seoul will positively consider the offer.

With regard to a possible visit to the Gaesong Industrial Complex, Lee said that Seoul has not yet decided whether to include Gaesong on the president's itinerary, although consultations are under way with North Korean officials.

The minister added that North Korea will host a welcoming dinner for Mr. Roh and his entourage on the first day of their visit and that the South Korean delegation will host a dinner on the second day.