Pyongyang, December 15 (KCNA) -- Traditionally, the Korean people have significantly observed the winter solstice day.

Until the end of Koryo Kingdom (early 10th century-late 14th century), they had considered it as the year-beginning day and enjoyed themselves on the day. They also made calendars with the day as the first day.

The winter solstice day has continued to be observed by the Korean nation as "little New Year's Day".

As the last of the 24 seasonal divisions, it falls on around the 22nd of December each year.

Its daytime is the shortest and the nighttime the longest in the year.

Taking rice and red-bean porridge that day is a traditional custom of the Korean people.

Eating the porridge, they recollect the outgoing year. And they share the porridge with neighbors to promote harmony with each other.