Present at the opening ceremony were Choe Hwi, vice-chairman of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea who is chairman of the National Sports Guidance Committee, Ki Kwang Ho, minister of Finance who is chairman of the Figure Skating Association, Kim Chun Sik, secretary general of the National Sports Guidance Committee, officials concerned, working people and youths and students.

First Vice-minister of Physical Culture and Sports Kim Jong Su made an opening speech.

Then followed demonstration performance "Song of February on Ice Rink."

"Let's Sing of Pride of Having General", "Thunder on Jong Il Peak" and other pieces showed well the reverence and strong yearnings for Kim Jong Il.

Diverse numbers showing various skills clearly showcased the daily developing ice skating technique of Korea.

The festival lasts until Feb. 17.