Could the connection between Rodman and Kim, who classmates said was a huge basketball fan as a teenager -- when Rodman was winning five NBA championships -- help cool down this international hotspot?

CNN: Dennis Rodman is North Korean leader's 'friend for life'

His tastes in entertainment lean towards basketball, as he is purported to be a fan of the NBA and has overseen the construction of courts throughout the country.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: The House of Kim