South Korean President Roh Moo-Hyun made a surprise visit to his troops in northern Iraq on his way home from a European tour. Lee Byung-Wan, senior presidential secretary for public relations, said the visit had been kept secret for security reasons. "President Roh Moo-Hyun has just concluded a visit to the Zaitun (South Korean military) unit in Arbil, Iraq, on his way back home from Paris," Lee told reporters. South Korean media pool reports from Iraq said Roh, wearing an army jacket, had meals and chats with troops during his 120-minute stay. "Thank you all so much. It may be a short meeting, but it is such a happy time," he was quoted as telling the soldiers at a mess hall. "I'm so proud of you."