Mourners head to pro-N.Korean assoc. in Japan

A pro-North Korea association in Japan has begun receiving mourners for the death of North Korean leader Kim Jong Il.

The General Association of Korean Residents in Japan opened its offices across Japan to mourners on Wednesday.

Many people were seen visiting the association's headquarters in Tokyo after 10AM, when it started to receive visitors.

A man who visited the headquarters said an altar with a youthful photo of Kim was set up on the second floor. He said visitors were allowed to offer flowers for the late leader.

The association will receive mourners through Thursday.

It says the period of mourning will last until December 29, and memorial ceremonies will be held at its offices across the country on the same day.

The association is also planning to send a delegation to North Korea.