The two Koreas discuss (brief) reunions for families separated by war
Millions were separated during the inter-Korean conflict nearly 70 years ago, with most dying before seeing or hearing from relatives again
Seoul — On Friday, North and South Korea held Red Cross talks to discuss resuming reunions for families separated by the 1950-53 Korean War, the latest step in the diplomatic thaw on the peninsula. Millions of people were separated during the conflict that sealed the division between the two Koreas nearly 70 years ago. Most died without having a chance to see or hear from their relatives on the other side of the border, across which all civilian communication is banned. The resumption of the family reunions — last held in 2015 — was one of the agreements reached between North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and the South’s President Moon Jae-in at their landmark summit in April. Only about 57,000 people registered with the South Korean Red Cross to meet their separated relatives remain alive, most of them aged over 70. Even if reunions are arranged, only 100 participants from each side will be selected. For the lucky few chosen to take part, the experience is often hugely emotional, as th...
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