The problem with high voltage DC-DC converters is that the controller chips need a 'logic' supply to run their internal oscillators, comparators, and fet drivers. In low voltage applications, the controller chip is just powered from the input voltage. However, if you have an auxiliary low-voltage supply, the converter chip never sees the high voltage. Only the MOSFETs and catch diodes have to be rated for the high voltage. So if you have a way to provide some low voltage, pretty much any SMPS circuit with external FETs can be used.
The two classic solutions to this problem are an independent auxiliary supply or bootstrapping. Bootstrapping is to have the circuit powered from a low voltage winding on its main transformer. That works once the circuit is started, but it cant actually turn on. To solve this problem, you use a resistive dropper from the main high voltage source that charges a capacitor with enough stored charge to start up the circuit. Once running, the SMPS controller is powered by its own output.