North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, President Moon Jae-in

By Kim Bo-eun

The government is expected to step up efforts for a possible visit to Seoul this month by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. President Moon Jae-in said this possibility was still open following his summit with U.S. President Donald Trump.

Expectations are high in certain circles that Moon may send a special envoy to Pyongyang soon to arrange the visit. Trump also said he is aiming for a summit with Kim early next year, something that could be helpful in reviving stalled denuclearization talks, according to some analysts.

"The possibility of Kim's visit within the month is open," President Moon told reporters in the presidential plane flying from Buenos Aires, Argentina, following the G20 summit, to New Zealand.

A week ago, Cheong Wa Dae had hinted that things might not go as planned, considering the stalemate in the denuclearization negotiations.

However, the presidential office has since gone back to its previous stance and is preparing for the possible summit between Moon and Kim to take place this month, despite the lack of time remaining.

Unification ministry spokesman Baik Tae-hyun said Monday, "The North Korean leader's visit to Seoul within this month is possible and necessary."