China Welcomes Home 43 Fallen Heroes from Korean War
Shenyang, China – In a solemn ceremony filled with respect and remembrance, the remains of 43 Chinese People’s Volunteers (CPV) soldiers who lost their lives during the Korean War were returned to China from the Republic of Korea (ROK) on Thursday.
A Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Air Force Y-20 transport aircraft touched down in Shenyang, the capital of northeast China’s Liaoning Province, carrying the soldiers’ remains along with 495 personal belongings. The heroes will be laid to rest in a martyrs’ cemetery in Shenyang, where they will be honored for their sacrifice.
The handover ceremony took place earlier in Incheon, ROK, where officials from both nations gathered to pay their respects. Each casket was draped with the Chinese national flag, and the national anthem echoed through the hall. Attendees bowed three times to honor the martyrs before their remains began the journey home.
This repatriation marks the tenth consecutive year that China and the ROK have collaborated to return the remains of CPV soldiers. Between 2014 and 2023, the two countries have jointly brought back the remains of 938 heroes, along with personal artifacts, in accordance with international laws and humanitarian principles.
The Korean War, which erupted in June 1950, saw the involvement of approximately 2.9 million CPV soldiers after China entered the conflict in October 1950 at the request of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. The war lasted nearly three years, with over 360,000 Chinese soldiers killed or injured.
The return of these brave soldiers serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made in pursuit of peace. It underscores the enduring commitment to honoring those who gave their lives and the importance of peace and reconciliation.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
