North Korean leader attends concert by Russian folk group

PYONGYANG, July 18 (Itar-Tass) - North Korean leader Kim Jong-il has attended a concert by Russian famous folk dance group "Beryozka" on Thursday. The concert was held in the city of Hamhung in the east of North Korea.
Before the concert the North Korean leader talked to Chief artistic director of the Russian ensemble Mira Koltsova and Russian Charge d' Affairs ad interim in North Korea Alexander Matsegora. During the meeting the North Korean leader expressed gratitude to Beryozka dancers, saying their performance inspired the people of North Korea to make new accomplishments in labor, the local media said.
The Russian ensemble opened the concert with a composition Song by
Commander Kim Jong-il performed in chorus and then performed compositions from its traditional repertoire, including the world famous "Podmoskovniye Vechera" and "Katyusha". A composition titled The Korean Commander based on local motifs crowned the concert.
Upon completion of the concert the North Korean leader wished success to the Russian song and dance company. Local mass media praised the concert, saying the Russian ensemble presented a bright demonstration of national traditions of the Russian people and their ardent patriotism