Nov. 2 (Bloomberg) -- North Korean leader Kim Jong Il may have ordered abductions of Japanese nationals in the 1970s and 1980s, the Asahi newspaper reported, citing a Japanese government agency study.

The finding contradicts Kim’s claim in September 2002 that the abductions were conducted by rogue elements within the regime, the report said.

Kim’s involvement may complicate efforts by Japan Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama to normalize North Korea relations, the Asahi said.

To contact the reporter on this story: Pavel Alpeyev in Tokyo at palpeyev@bloomberg.net.

Last Updated: November 1, 2009 18:12 EST