Kim Jong Un impersonator interviewed for about 45min at Changi Airport: ICA

Kim Jong Un impersonator "Howard X" is approached by an auxiliary policeman outside the Esplanade on May 27, 2018. PHOTO: AFP

SINGAPORE (REUTERS) - An Australian comedian known for impersonating North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said he was detained by Singaporean authorities on Friday (June 8) and questioned about his political views.

The incident came just days before the city-state hosts high stakes talks between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

In response to queries from The Straits Times, the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority of Singapore said Lee Howard Ho Wun arrived at Changi Airport at about 3.30am on Friday and was interviewed at about 4.15am.

After completing the interview at 5am, he was allowed entry into Singapore at 5.15am.

"As part of the immigration clearance process, travellers to Singapore may be subject to additional interviews and/or screening. These procedures are conducted at all Singapore checkpoints," an ICA spokesman said.

The comedian, who goes by the name of Howard X, told Reuters earlier he was detained for two hours and questioned for around 30 minutes when he arrived in the early morning hours at Singapore's Changi Airport.

"(They) asked me what my political views were and if I have been involved with protests in other countries," he said, adding that he was told to stay away from Sentosa Island and the Shangri-La, two areas that are designated 'special event areas' for the summit.

"They said, 'It's the Trump-Kim summit, you've come at a very sensitive time.'"

Howard X was in Singapore late last month, posing as Mr Kim Jong Un against a backdrop of the city's bay, which features sites such as the Merlion and the iconic Marina Bay Sands Hotel.

He said he is planning similar stunts for the purpose of political satire in the coming days, this time in tow with Donald Trump impersonator Dennis Alan. He said he is not planning any protests.

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