Dennis Rodman brings 'basketball diplomacy' to North Korea

Dennis Rodman (C) is surrounded by journalists as he arrives at the Beijing Capital International Airport to leave for Pyongyang Credit: REUTERS/Jason Lee

Former basketball player Dennis Rodman is returning to North Korea and this time he is bringing a dozen of his friends from the NBA.

The flamboyant US sportsman is taking part in an exhibition game in the secretive state in what he has called "basketball diplomacy".

Rodman told reports at Beijing Capital International Airport:

The retired player also has compared his visit to the Olympics:

He is travelling to the country a dozen former NBA colleagues including Vin Baker and Cliff Robinson to take part in a game to celebrate Kim Jon-un's birthday.

Rodman attracted controversy by visiting the country twice last year, and dining with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un.

Read: Rodman reveals Kim Jong-un has become a father