Almost 400 South Korean citizens crossed the militarized border to the North Tuesday to be reunited with their long lost relatives that have not been in contact with them for over six decades. The families have not communicated since the 1950-1953 Korean War.
The two Koreas have remained in a constant state of war and maintain strict regulations along their borders. The meeting is in line with the agreement since the last reunions in February last year.
Organizers held the event at the Mount Kumgang resort near the border, where no international news agency was allowed. South Koreans wore business suits to the event, and some wore "hanbok," the traditional Korean attire. They also brought medicine, parkas, samples of calligraphy and cash for their relatives in North Korea. Some of those who took part during the event were almost 90 years old, according to The Asahi Shimbum.
Only 200 families took part in the 20th reunion done since the war, with 96 families coming from the North and 90 families coming from the South, according to CNN. The South Korean Unification Ministry, an organization that takes charge of issues concerning both Koreas, said that over 130,000 South Korean families have sent their application since 1988 to see their loved ones.
"Father, it's me, your son," 65-year-old Chae Hee-yang of South Korea said to 88-year-old Chae Hoon-sik, who was trapped in North Korea, according to Yonhap News Agency, Euronews reported.
Three days will be allowed for the reunions. The first one was done on Oct. 20, and the remaining two will be held on Oct. 24 and 26, The Asahi Shimbum reported.
