Games South Korea's Kim Kyeong-ae (L) and Seong Ji-hoon are in action during the mixed doubles curling final against Japan at the Asian Winter Games at the Harbin Pingfang Curling Arena on Feb. 8, 2025.

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.

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.

People pose for photos with a snow sculpture of "Binbin," mascot of the 2025 Asian Winter Games, at the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, capital of northeast China's Heilongjiang

As the 9th Asian Winter Games began their first official day of competition, anticipation soared for the event to foster unity, drive shared prosperity, and deepen friendships across Asia and beyond.

Team China secured eight gold, eight silver and four bronze medals on the first gold medal day of the 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, Northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province on Saturday, topping both the gold medal and overall medal standings.

Asian Winter Games began with an opening ceremony in Harbin, China, featuring 34 participating countries across 11 sports.