Hitmen who were planning to assassinate North Korean leader Kim Jong-un have been detained, according to reports.

At least two people - one of whom is believed to be a North Korean defector, and at least one Chinese national - were arrested near Tumen River at the border with China, it is claimed.

The suspects were allegedly planning to kill the dictator in Hoeryong in North Hamgyong Province, it has been reported.

Target: At least two people who were planning to kill Kim Jong-un have been detained, it has been reported

An unnamed source in North Korea told Asia Press said he heard the 'terrorists' had not crossed the river from China.

North Korean guards went to China to arrest them and the suspects were taken to the State Security Department, the source claimed. The guards were reportedly given rewards for their work.

However, the founder of Asia Press said the story was probably just a rumour spread by the state to to garner support for the Korean Workers' Party before the 7th Congress.

The 7th Congress of North Korea's Workers' Party in early May will be the first in 36 years and the first under leader Kim Jong Un.

He is expected to announce major policy directives and personnel changes.