South Korean companies operating in the Gaeseong Industrial Complex have welcomed Hyundai Group Chairwoman Hyun Jeong-eun's visit to North Korea, expressing hope for a breakthrough to strained inter-Korean relations.

An association of South Korean firms operating in the complex said on Monday that the visit will help remove obstacles to cross-border relations and create a positive atmosphere for companies doing business with the North.

The firms also said Hyun's visit will be the first step towards the solution of thorny issues between the two Koreas.

Hyun plans to seek the release of a South Korean worker from the inter-Korean Gaeseong Industrial Complex who has been detained since March.