A United Nations official said a silent tribute held by the UN General Assembly in light of North Korean leader Kim Jong-il's death was "customary," after the event raised controversy.

The official said the UN is obligated to accept requests for silent tributes in the case of a ruler's death. The official also added there have been no prior cases in which requests were denied.

The official added that a silent tribute was also held after North Korea's founder Kim Il-sung died in 1994.

U.N. General Assembly President Nassir Abdulaziz Al-Nasser from Qatar told a news conference the tribute was held out of courtesy for a UN member.

Mr. Al-Nasser also said it is customary for representatives to leave the venue if the tribute is deemed inappropriate.