Kim Jong-un has become the first North Korean leader to set foot in South Korea by crossing the military line that has divided the peninsula since the end of the Korean War in 1953.

In a moment rich with symbolism and pomp, South Korean leader Moon Jae-in and Kim shook hands at the border, reports BBC.

Kim said he hoped for "frank" discussion in a warm opening exchange.

Just months ago North Korean rhetoric was warlike, but now they may discuss a peace treaty and nuclear weapons.

Much of what the summit will focus on has been agreed in advance, but many analysts remain deeply skeptical about the North's apparent enthusiasm for engagement.

The whole of South Korea stood still for the moment the leaders shook hands on both sides of the border in the demilitarised zone that divides the countries.

The White House said it was hopeful talks would make progress toward peace and prosperity. The Korean summit is seen as a prelude to a proposed meeting between Mr Kim and US President Trump, an unprecedented move as no sitting US president has met with a North Korean leader.

Talks will address North Korea's controversial nuclear weapons program.

Seoul has warned that reaching an agreement to rid Pyongyang of its nuclear weapons will be "difficult". North Korea's nuclear and missile technology has advanced significantly since the last summit more than a decade ago.

The meeting - the third of its kind following summits in 2000 and 2007 - is the result of months of improving relations.

The rapprochement began in January when Kim suggested he was "open to dialogue" with South Korea. The following month the two countries marched under one flag at the opening ceremony of the Winter Olympics.

BDST: 1126 HRS, APR 27, 2018
SI