On the first morning of the new year, the masses entered the plaza of the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun, the sacred temple of Juche, where President Kim Il Sung and Chairman Kim Jong Il lie in state, and paid tribute to the portraits portraying their smiling images.

Working people, service personnel, youth and students visited the statues of the great leaders and mosaics depicting their smiling images on Mansu Hill and across the country to pay tribute to them.

Children and pupils of primary schools across the country received gifts of love on the occasion of the New Year.

Colorful art performances were given in Pyongyang and local areas to rev up the festive mood.

Okryu Restaurant and Chongryu Restaurant in Pyongyang, Kyongam Restaurant in Sariwon of North Hwanghae Province, Sinhung Restaurant in Hamhung of South Hamgyong Province and other public catering establishments across the country were crowded with masses.

Congratulatory cards were served at shops and bookstores in Pyongyang and New Year greetings were exchanged across the country.