[1] Additionally, the chairman receives credentials and letters of recall of diplomatic representatives accredited by foreign countries.

[5] This made the chairman of the SPA Standing Committee the de jure head of state of North Korea.

Nominally, the Chairman of the SPA Standing Committee held the highest state post followed by the premier, Kim Il Sung.

The 1972 Constitution created the position of President of North Korea who is tasked with being the country's head of state.

[7] The 1998 revision of the 1972 Constitution created the position under the new English translation of President of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly with its powers as head of state restored.