June is the Intensive DNA Sample Collection Period

Prime Minister Lee Nak-yeon is moving with the honor guard who enshrined the remains at the joint enshrinement ceremony for the remains of the fallen soldiers of the Korean War held on the 18th at the National Seoul National Cemetery in Dongjak-gu, Seoul, to the escort vehicle. Photo by Kim Hyun-min kimhyun81@

[Asia Economy Yang Nak-gyu, Military Specialist Reporter]The Ministry of National Defense has decided to designate June, the Month of Patriots and Veterans, as a concentrated DNA sample collection period to identify the remains of those who died in the Korean War (6·25).

On the 31st, the Ministry of National Defense stated, "Since last year, we have been conducting the 'Remains Excavation Project with the People' campaign and making various efforts, but due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation, we have faced difficulties in on-site promotion and securing DNA samples from bereaved families," adding, "We will operate June, the Month of Patriots and Veterans, as a concentrated DNA sample collection period."

To expand DNA sample collection, the collection sites have been increased from existing public health centers, military hospitals, and veterans hospitals to Red Cross hospitals nationwide, and local governments are also being encouraged to participate in the campaign. This time, the Daegu-Gyeongbuk region and Jinhae-gu, Changwon City in Gyeongnam Province will conduct the 'Finding Families of 6·25 War Casualties' campaign together with local responsible military units.

Additionally, a campaign titled "You Could Be a Family Member (You-ga-jok)" is being promoted, allowing participation in DNA sample collection from relatives within the eighth degree of kinship on both paternal and maternal sides of the war casualties.

Bereaved families who have not yet found the remains of 6·25 war casualties can participate in DNA sample collection by visiting military hospitals nationwide, local reserve forces units, public health centers, veterans hospitals (nursing homes), or Red Cross hospitals. They can also contact the Ministry of National Defense's Remains Excavation and Identification Team (☎1577-5625) or request a visit, in which case collection can be done at home.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.