Gao Tingyu (L), Lian Ziwen (C) and Ning Zhongyan of China pose during the awarding ceremony after the men's team sprint final match of the speed skating event at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Feb. 10, 2025. Photo: Xinhua

North Korea's state media reported Monday that the Asian Winter Games have opened in the northeastern Chinese city of Harbin, where three North Korean athletes are participating.

China's Zhang Xiaonan, Yang Wenlong, Jiang Xinjie, and Xiong Shirui (from left to right) celebrate after the women's and men's snowboard big air final match at the 9th Asian Winter Games in Yabuli, Northeast China's Heilongjiang province,

Harbin could consolidate its position as one of the world's leading winter tourism destinations. If used properly, this edition of the Asian Winter Games could be a turning point for the city and the rest of the northeast region, transforming it into a global center for winter sports and ice and snow-related tourism.