On the holiday they enjoy full moon, expressing their wishes. They also recollect last year and hope for good luck and bumper crops in the new year.

But this year's holiday is different. Seeing the full moon they are sorely missing leader Kim Jong Il and wishing him immortality. They are also determined to make redoubled efforts for the prosperity of socialist Korea.

Pak Ri Gil, a 59-year-old man living in Moranbong District, Pyongyang, told KCNA:

"On the holiday my family used to sing the song 'Bright Moon over My Homeland'. Singing the song we had hoped that the moon would brighten the way of leader Kim Jong Il's army inspection tour and that he would take rest even a little.

But this evening I think of many moonlit nights he spent in his inspection tour for the prosperity of the country and the happiness of the people. I am missing him so much. I will remain true to his lifetime intention."

Jong Chol Hun, a 54-year-old man living in Phyongchon District, said;

"All of the Korean people hope that everything will go well this year marking the 100th birth anniversary of President Kim Il Sung and the 70th birth anniversary of General Secretary Kim Jong Il.

I and my family vow to keep the pledge we made before the bier of Kim Jong Il by doing a fine job."