North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong-ho was seen at an airport in Beijing on Thursday, raising the possibility that his trip might be aimed at contacting U.S. officials ahead of a planned summit between the two countries.

Ri was spotted at the Beijing international airport earlier in the day. He is said to be on his way to Sweden where he is scheduled to hold a foreign ministerial meeting.

His next destination has not been independently confirmed.

His overseas trip raises the possibility that he might be seeking contact with U.S. officials to discuss details related to a summit proposed by President Donald Trump last week. The North has not responded to the proposal.

Sweden has been frequently used as an unofficial communication channel between the U.S. and reclusive North Korea. (Yonhap)