N.Y. Philharmonic decides to perform in North Korea

The New York Philharmonic has decided to perform in North Korea, a cultural breakthrough as tense relations between the United States and the reclusive Communist nation ease, the orchestra's president said Monday.

The concert will be Feb. 26, said Zarin Mehta, the Philharmonic's president and executive director. He declined to provide further details, saying a formal announcement of the trip is scheduled for later.

North Korea's Ministry of Culture sent the orchestra an invitation in August. In October, Mehta spent six days in North Korea exploring venues and other arrangements for a potential concert in Pyongyang.

The regime of Kim Jong-il has been accused of torturing and starving its people.