What they said

"I had to take part in the war as a young student. I have experienced the cruelty of war and the deep wounds it brought to the people. We should cherish the life and the peace we have today."

Kim Seoung-youl, former ROK soldier who participated in the Korean War

"The dead soldiers of the Chinese People's Volunteers have slept in a foreign county for 60 years. The return of their remains can somehow console their souls. Just like China, the ROK is also a war-ravaged country, so we can understand Chinese people's miserable feelings brought by the war."

Kim Hyung-muk, ROK resident

"The return of the remains would transcend the historical hatred. I hope the ROK and China can take this opportunity to make more progress in bilateral ties, and I also hope for an early reunification on the Korean Peninsula."

Bae Dong-han, ROK resident

"Everything is back to peace nowadays and life is much better. ... Don't forget those who died in a foreign land. How I would like to meet my companions again and tell them about the good life today."

Li Shuanzhu, former Chinese People's Volunteers soldier from Hubei province, who has since passed away

"Although my father has already passed away, I'm sure he would be gratified if he heard the news that his fallen companions are finally coming back to their home."

Qin Ruixin, daughter of a former Chinese People's Volunteers soldier

(China Daily 01/09/2014 page12)