The festival brought together figure skaters of the DPRK, Russia, France and the Czech Republic.

Its opening ceremony took place at the Ice Rink on Tuesday

Present there were Kim Ki Nam, Yang Hyong Sop, Kang Sok Ju, Choe Ryong Hae and others.

Congratulatory groups of overseas Koreans, the chief of the Pyongyang mission of the Anti-Imperialist National Democratic Front and foreign guests were on hand.

Pak Myong Chol, minister of Physical Culture and Sports, in an opening address said that this festival would mark a significant occasion in developing the unity, cooperation and sports technique among sports persons.

An opening performance was given by Korean figure skaters.

The performers successfully represented the high pride and self-respect of the Korean nation holding Kim Jong Il in high esteem and the Korean people's steadfast will to build a thriving socialist nation at an early date true to his leadership.

The ceremony was followed by demonstration presentations.