The Dong-a Ilbo newspaper carried a similar report, saying the North is teaching its people a song lauding the son. It cited unidentified ``sources.''

The spy agency said it cannot confirm the reports.

The possible transfer of power comes at a tense time as the North escalates tensions in the region. Pyongyang tested a nuclear device on May 25 and has fired several short-range missiles. Media reports say that the North appears to be preparing a test launch of a long-range missile.

Most analysts have long believed Kim's youngest son has the best chance of succeeding the authoritarian leader. Little is known about him except that he studied at the International School of Berne in Switzerland.

Kim Jong Il's former sushi chef, Kenji Fujimoto, said in his memoir that the son looks and acts just like his father and is the leader's favorite.