Upper House lawmaker Antonio Inoki on Monday arrived in North Korea to promote sports exchanges and learn about the future course of the country following the purge last month of leader Kim Jong Un's once-powerful uncle.

"I am hoping to have a discussion that will be a plus" for both Japan and North Korea, the former professional wrestling star told reporters at Beijing airport before leaving for Pyongyang.

Inoki plans to meet with Kim Yong Il, director of the International Department of the Workers' Party of Korea, and other senior officials to discuss arrangements for sports exchanges and a visit by a delegation from the Diet.