Renowned South Korea Maestro Chung Myung-whun set out for North Korea Monday on a mission to launch cultural exchanges between musicians from the two countries.

Chung is expected to discuss a variety of cultural exchange programs with North Korean officials.

The maestro, who leads the Seoul Philharmonic Orchestra, also acts as UNICEF goodwill ambassador.

The visit comes as Seoul moves cautiously to improve ties with Pyongyang. Earlier this month, Seoul named a new unification minister and allowed a religious delegation to visit Pyongyang for a joint Buddhist service.