Seoul: North Korea has conducted a state funeral for Kim Yong-nam, the former ceremonial head of state, with the attendance of Kim Jong-un, as reported by state media on Thursday.

According to Yonhap News Agency, the ceremony for Kim Yong-nam, who was the former president of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly, was held at the Patriotic Martyrs Cemetery in Pyongyang's Sinmi-ri on the previous day. Kim Yong-nam passed away on Monday at the age of 97 due to multiple organ failure while battling colorectal cancer. He held key diplomatic positions during the reigns of state founder Kim Il-sung, former leader Kim Jong-il, and the current leader Kim Jong-un.

During the state funeral, Kim Jong-un, along with key officials, paid silent tribute to Kim Yong-nam. Premier Pak Thae-song delivered a eulogy, praising the late Kim for his patriotism for the country, as reported by the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

In 2018, Kim Yong-nam was part of a North Korean delegation to the PyeongChang Winter Olympics in South Korea, which included Kim Yo-jong, the influential sister of Kim Jong-un. During the visit, he met with then-President Moon Jae-in. For 21 years, beginning with Kim Jong-il's rule, he served as chairman of the parliamentary standing committee, a role that represented the head of state in a titular capacity. He retired in 2019 at the age of 91, after six decades of public service.

South Korean Unification Minister Chung Dong-young extended his condolences on Tuesday regarding Kim's death. Additionally, Rep. Park Jie-won of the ruling party expressed his intent to visit North Korea to pay tribute in person, contingent upon government approval. However, North Korea has not yet responded to this gesture.