An estimated 12 000 people appreciated the concert.

After enjoying the concert Jong Kwang Hyok, a teacher of Kim Il Sung University, told KCNA, "When a picture of leader Kim Jong Il going round the swimming complex of our university appeared in the stage background, I got so excited. I am missing him very much."

Kim Chun Rim, an actress of the National Theatrical Troupe, said, "As the song 'Thought of Love' tells, leader Kim Jong Il's love for the people reached all parts and all people of the country. The Korean artistes could lead the happiest life in the world thanks to Kim Jong Il, a peerlessly great man."

Jon Un Gyong, an employee of the Hana Electronic Joint Venture Company, said:

"Listening to female solo and chorus 'Oh, We Miss You, Leader' and chorus 'Song of Love for People', I thought of leader Kim Jong Il, who gave field guidance to our working site in one of his last days. I will work hard, always remembering his tireless efforts for providing the people with bountiful and highly civilized life."

Sin Myong Il, an officer of the Korean People's Army (KPA), said that the concert made him renew his determination to devote himself to defending socialist Korea glorified by leader Kim Jong Il, true to the Songun revolutionary leadership of Kim Jong Un, supreme commander of the KPA.

Ri Ja Yong, an official of the State Planning Commission, said:

"Female trio and chorus 'Under Guidance of Kim Il Sung', chorus 'Might of Korea' and narrative and orchestral music 'Korea Has Risen Up' greatly inspire all people to turn out in the new year's grand march. The performance is the declaration of the start of this year's advance.

I will strive hard to bring about another upsurge in socialist construction this year under the leadership of Kim Jong Un, supreme leader of the Workers' Party of Korea, state and army, to glorify the new century of Kim Il Sung's nation as one of prosperity and great victories."