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Dennis Rodman meets North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, his ‘friend for life’

BALLERS: Dennis Rodman and his “friend for life,” North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, watch the Harlem Globetrotters yesterday in North Korea. (
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Dennis Rodman, who dated Madonna and was married to Carmen Electra, now has his most bizarre new pal yet — the Supreme Leader of North Korea.

“You have a friend for life,” the retired NBA star told Kim Jong-un before thousands at a Pyongyang gymnasium, where they sat side by side and watched the Harlem Globetrotters yesterday.

Later, the 51-year-old “Worm” and 29-year-old Kim enjoyed sushi, smoked turkey and drinks at the North Korean’s leader’s palace.

Rodman and three of the Globetrotters arrived in Kim’s capital Monday to shoot an episode of an HBO series, airing next month.

Rodman, best know for his rebounding and green hair, is by far the most prominent American to meet Kim since he assumed leadership of the Hermit Kingdom in December 2011.

Kim, a hoops fan, told Rodman he hoped the visit would break the ice between the United States and North Korea, which are technically still at war. Rodman said the frosty relations were “regrettable.”

The two teams were composed of North Korean players, plus two Americans on each side. It ended in a 110-110 tie, and both Rodman and Kim seemed to enjoy it.

“They bonded during the game,” said Shane Smith, a founder of VICE, a Brooklyn-based youth media company that coordinated the cultural exchange. “They were both enjoying the crazy shots.”

“To see everyone letting their hair down and getting into the match made it all the more worthwhile,” he added.

In Washington, the State Department refused comment on Rodman’s visit or his meeting with Kim.

“Private, individual Americans are welcome to take actions they see fit,” spokesman Patrick Ventrell said.

Rodman’s agent, Darren Prince, said Rodman wasn’t concerned about criticism for making a visit to an enemy nation.

“Dennis called me last night and said it’s been a great experience,” he said. “It’s all about peace and love.”