The two Koreas are reportedly seeking to arrange a visit to Seoul by North Korean parliamentary leader Kim Yong-nam in January or February.

A government source said the two sides are eyeing a visit some time between South Korea's December 19th presidential election and the next administration's launch on February 25th. The source said a January date is most likely.

If the plans are realized, North Korea's ceremonial head of state is expected to meet President Roh Moo-hyun and the president-elect.

Such reports have drawn attention to the ongoing visit by top Pyongyang official Kim Yang-gon, who oversees the United Front Department of the North's Workers' Party. The North's chief intelligence official and point man on inter-Korean affairs is in Seoul for a three-day visit.

The North Korean official met with Unification Minister Lee Jae-joung Thursday night. On Friday, he toured the southern cities of Busan and Geoje with National Intelligence Service Director Kim Man-bok. He will then meet President Roh.