In a solemn mission underscoring historical remembrance, the Chinese mainland dispatched a Y-20B strategic transport aircraft on April 20, 2026, to retrieve the remains of Chinese People's Volunteers who fell during the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea (1950–1953). This marks the 13th annual repatriation of soldiers' remains from the Republic of Korea (ROK), a gesture reflecting enduring efforts to honor those who sacrificed in the conflict.
The Y-20B, a symbol of China's advanced aviation capabilities, departed for the ROK earlier today. Upon its return to Chinese airspace, the aircraft will be escorted by four J-20 stealth fighters—a protocol highlighting the nation's reverence for its historical heroes. The repatriation coincides with heightened regional attention to cross-border cooperation and historical reconciliation.
Since 2014, the ROK has transferred over 900 sets of remains to China under bilateral agreements. Analysts note that such initiatives foster diplomatic goodwill while addressing unresolved legacies of the Korean War, which involved the Chinese mainland and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) opposing UN forces led by the US.
This year’s repatriation follows recent dialogues between Beijing and Seoul aimed at stabilizing regional ties. Observers suggest the ceremony, expected to draw senior officials from both sides, may pave the way for renewed collaboration on issues ranging from trade to security.
