Prior to the running, Hyon Sang Ju, chairman of the Central Committee of the General Federation of Trade Unions of Korea, made an address.

He said that a firm material and technological foundation has been laid for developing sports and a turn is being effected in the overall sports work of the country including mass sports activities under the deep loving care of the dear respected Kim Jong Un.

He called upon all the officials to take the lead in carrying out the Workers' Party of Korea's plan for building a highly civilized nation in good health.

Upon an order for start, the participants, divided into two groups, started running towards Sungri and Changjon streets.

All the participants kept pace with each other, hardening their will to take an active part in mass sports activities to make a breakthrough in the new year's drive with strong physical bodies.

The group running was followed by demonstration performances of mass rhythmic exercise and Taekwon-do exercise for health.

Colorful sports games took place in industrial establishments in Pyongyang including the Pyongyang Thermal Power Complex and many other units on the same occasion

Group running also took place in all provinces, cities and countries Sunday.