Putin accepts Kim Jong Un's invitation to visit North Korea, what is expected to happen

Russian President Vladimir Putin has accepted the invitation to visit North Korea, the state media in Pyongyang announced.

This announcement came as North Korean leader Kim Jong Un wrapped up his rare visit to Russia.

The reclusive Kim, who has not left his country since the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, held a "historic" meeting with Putin on Wednesday, the North Korean state news agency said.

Among the outcomes of the leaders' summit were Russian promises to help North Korea advance its space program, according to Russian news agencies.

Putin himself told reporters that he saw "opportunities" for military cooperation between the two countries.

Historic allies Russia and North Korea face global sanctions - Moscow over its war in Ukraine, Pyongyang over its nuclear tests - and Kim's visit has been heavily criticized amid doubts about any arms deal.

The leader of South Korea's ruling party criticized what he called a "devil's deal" between Moscow and Pyongyang, while Japan warned on Thursday against violating United Nations bans on arms deals.

"We are looking at the talks with concern, including the possibility of new violations of the UN bans", said the new foreign minister in Japan, Yoko Kamikawa./Rel/