Pyongyang, January 16 (KCNA) -- Open-air ice rinks in the DPRK are now full of people.

The outdoor ice rink near to the Ice Rink in Pyongyang has been crowded with visitors.

Its nocturnal view is spectacular because of the peculiar floodlights and garden lamps.

An official of the Ice Rink said that not only schoolchildren but also parents with children and elderly people are interested in the outdoor ice rink and that more schoolchildren have visited it than usual during the winter vacation.

Skating is popular with everyone and it is good for heart, lungs and so on, the official added, stressing that the winter ice skating helps youth and students have strong bones.

On the broad ice rink, many people are enjoying ice skating.

Young men and women perform elegant movements to the tune of light music and little schoolchildren display good skills.

Trainers of the Ice Rink are busy teaching the knack of skating to visitors. A trainer said with a smile on face that hundreds of visitors use the ice rink every day, adding that the number of visitors is on the increase.

The outdoor ice rink, a winter mass sports service center for people's cultural and leisure activities and their health promotion, resounds with the laughter of visitors skating full of joy and optimism. -0-