Beijing, Dec 28 (IANS) China Wednesday denied reports that its army had entered North Korea following the death of its leader Kim Jong-il.

Defence ministry spokesman Yang Yujun said the media reports were ‘totally groundless’, according to Xinhua.

Media reports claimed the Chinese army had entered North Korea to help maintain stability.

Meanwhile, thousands paid their last respects to former North Korean leader Kim Jong-il as the country began a two-day funeral service for the deceased ‘dear leader’.

Kim Jong-il died of heart attack while on a train Dec 17, aged 69.