North Korea Embraces New Year Atmosphere... Crowds Gather at Flower Shops and Prepare for Fireworks

[Asia Economy Reporter Lee Ji-eun] On the eve of the New Year, North Korea is making efforts to create a festive atmosphere for the new year.

The Workers' Party organ newspaper, Rodong Sinmun, reported on the 31st in an article titled "Bustling with Guests" that people are frequently visiting "flower shops, flower rooms, and flower stands" ahead of the Seollal holiday.

Along with photos of people selecting flowers at a flower shop in Pyongyang, the newspaper also shared stories of people looking for bouquets to give to family, acquaintances, and colleagues.

The newspaper stated, "There were young people smiling as they imagined the joyful faces of their parents receiving beautiful bouquets, and some who could not leave the flower shop for a long time while thinking about which flowers to give to unforgettable teachers and long-time innovators at their workplaces."

Another article reported, "As the solar New Year approaches, the entire country is decorated in festive colors," describing that signs and flag decorations were installed on various buildings and main streets in Pyongyang, and flower and greenery decorations along with slogans were displayed in circular parks such as Pyongyang Station, Botongmun, and Yeonmot. From the area in front of the Pyongyang Grand Theatre, passing through Kim Il-sung Square to the Chollima Statue, neon lights were installed on roadside trees and curbs.

Since Kim Jong-un took power, North Korea has held a New Year's fireworks display every year, and it is expected to hold the New Year's fireworks again next year. On the 30th, NK News, a U.S.-based North Korea specialist media outlet, reported based on satellite images that a stage for the New Year's event is being set up at Kim Il-sung Square.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.