Pyongyang: Kim Chang-son, who had served as the protocol chief to North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, has died, according to the North's state media Friday. The North's leader expressed "deep" condolences over his death and sent a wreath to the bier the previous day, the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) reported, without saying the cause of his death.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the report stated that Kim Chang-son held important posts within the ruling Workers' Party of Korea and the state for a long time. His career was marked by what was described as "the special loving care and deep trust of the peerlessly great men." He was credited with making significant contributions to defending the prestige of the Workers' Party and enhancing the country's external prestige through his steadfast honesty and sincerity.

Kim Chang-son was recognized as the de facto chief of staff to Kim Jong-un during his tenure as protocol chief. He was a prominent figure during Kim Jong-un's summit diplomacy, especially during the 2018-2019 period, which included summit talks with U.S. President Donald Trump in Singapore and Vietnam. Kim Chang-son played a crucial role in preparing for these summits by visiting facilities in advance to check his leader's route and schedule.

In 2018, Kim Chang-son also visited South Korea as part of a high-level delegation led by Kim Yo-jong, the influential sister of Kim Jong-un, to attend the PyeongChang Winter Olympics. Additionally, he served as the North's chief delegate for working-level talks on protocol, security, and media for summit talks between South Korean President Moon Jae-in and Kim Jong-un in April 2018.

During the rule of former leader Kim Jong-il, the late father of the incumbent leader, Kim Chang-son worked at the office of the secretariat, supporting the ruler and his family.