North Korea finally found the time to condole with the South Korean families of the sea tragedy victims, mostly school children, after more than a week since the capsizing occurred.

Reports said North Korea sent its condolences through the two Red Cross organizations that usually handle cross-border communications.

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In the message, North Korea said it is conveying its deep sympathy to the victims of the disaster, who were mostly school children.

Critics denounced North Korea President Kim Jong Un for showing apathy toward the tragedy and even "enjoying" the Chinese performance he watched at the time when rescue operations were ongoing.

Leaders from all over the world sent their sympathies, condolence, and support to the families with the exception of Kim Jong Un during the first few days of the tragedy, which is considered as South Korea's worst maritime disaster in decades.

North Korean state media had barely commented on the tragedy that has dominated international headlines for the last 7 days.

Reports from the search team said around 159 people have been confirmed dead while more than 140 are still unaccounted for. Divers said more bodies are believed to be trapped in the submerged ship.

North and South Korea have been at odds with each other since the 1950-1953 Korean War in which no peace treaty had been signed.

When former North Korean leader Kim Jong il passed away, South Korea extended its condolences to the people of North Korea.