North Korea is pushing for the end of sanctions on imports of luxury goods including Kim Jong Un's favourite fine liquors, according to South Korean lawmakers.
North Korea wants international sanctions banning its metal exports and other necessities lifted before it restarts denuclearisation talks with the United States, lawmakers said.
The move is said to be an indication that Kim Jong Un and his elite are being hit hard by the sanctions, as a South Korean politician said the luxury goods would be 'distributed to Pyongyang's elite'.
It comes amid speculation about the North Korean dictator's health, after he was spotted last month with a dark spot on the back of his head.