South Korea, walking a delicate diplomatic line in the wake of Kim Jong-il’s death, yesterday offered sympathy to the North Korean people without making any direct reference to the longtime ruler, while also going to great lengths to avoid provoking Pyongyang’s inexperienced new leader, writes Christian Oliver in Seoul.

The depth of South Korea’s concern was demonstrated by its decision not to illuminate Christmas tree-shaped towers along the North Korean border to prevent a potential confrontation with Kim Jong-eun, the dictator’s youngest son.

A dispute over Christmas trees would be a first test of Mr Kim’s mettle as North Korea’s leader. The giant trees, which were due to be lit on Friday, are a longstanding bone of contention between the Koreas. Pyongyang views them as Christian propaganda intended as “psychological warfare”.