Ski Resorts to Open

[Anchor Lead]

Some ski resorts in Gangwon-do Province have opened their doors to ski lovers as the temperatures in Korea's mountainous region have plunged to as low as 9 degrees below zero. All major ski slopes in Gangwon-do Province plan to open by the end of this month to signal the beginning of the ski season.

[Pkg]

Snowboarders effortlessly race down the snow-covered slopes. Despite the freezing cold and strong winds, they swerve in smooth arcs as if performing acrobatic moves. Even the beginners are having fun. Some skiers slide down while sitting on their skis and some novice snowboarders fall flat on the ground, but it's apparent that they're all enjoying the sports.

[Soundbite] Lee Hyeon-wu(Gangneung Resident) : "It's hard since it's my first day. But the snow condition and weather are nice, so I think I can enjoy skiing."

Unusually balmy weather has pushed back the opening of ski resorts by about two weeks compared to last year. But the wait has boosted people's expectations and the ski slopes are packed with skiers and snowboarders from the first day. They're also keenly interested in the PyeongChang Winter Olympics which is only about 80 days away.

[Soundbite] Lee Ji-ha(Seoul Resident) : "I hope this great winter energy would go to Pyeongchang to make the Winter Olympics and the Paralympics successful."

Except for Alpensia Ski Resort preparing for the Winter Olympics in PyeongChang, all 14 ski resorts nationwide plan to open by early next month to welcome ski and snowboard enthusiasts.