KIM Jong Il has been re-elected as leader of the communist nation.

The Korean Central News Agency reported that Mr Kim was elected chairman of the powerful National Defence Commission.

Under North Korea's constitution, that makes him leader of the country since his late father, Kim Il Sung, remains "eternal president".

All eyes will be on the 67-year-old, who reportedly suffered a stroke last August, as he presides over the opening session of North Korea's new parliament.