South Korean Defense Minister Han Min-koo says the assassination of the North Korean leader's half brother, Kim Jong-nam, appears to be an act by Pyongyang to remove any potential figure who can replace leader Kim Jong-un.

Representative Kim Young-woo, head of the parliamentary defense committee, said the minister presented the assessment during a meeting with committee members on Monday.

Han reportedly told them the killing also appears to be aimed at sending a strong warning against North Korean defectors and dissidents.

The minister is also said to have reported no unusual movement in the North Korean military.