Baengma Hill Battle: A Deep Dive into the Human Cost and Ongoing Remains Recovery Efforts

The Battle of White Horse was a fierce engagement

From October 6-15, 1952, the ROK 9th Division defeated the Chinese 38th Army’s 3rd Division at White Horse Hill (Hill 395) in Cheorwon, Gangwon Province. The battle resulted in over 960 South Korean casualties and thousands of Chinese deaths, leaving the hillside strewn with remains.
During excavations, efforts to recover South Korean remains often yielded more Chinese bones. Piecing together bone fragments revealed the human toll of war, portraying the fallen as “victims of conflict” rather than enemies.

Recovery of ROK remains led to repatriation of Chinese soldiers

The Ministry of National Defense’s excavation team has been working on the southern side of the DMZ at White Horse Hill since 2021. They’ve recovered 25 sets of South Korean remains alongside numerous Chinese remains. In accordance with international law and humanitarian principles, the decision was made to return these to China.
Following a 2014 South Korea-China agreement, remains are repatriated annually before Qingming Festival. By 2025, a total of 1,011 sets will have been returned. The handover ceremony at Incheon Airport involves the South Korean Defense Minister and the Director of China’s Veterans Affairs Bureau.

The Incheon Airport handover ceremony is symbolic

The 12th repatriation ceremony at Incheon Airport saw the transfer of 30 sets of Chinese remains, a byproduct of South Korean recovery efforts. The Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and Chinese representatives attended.
While China hails this as the “return of heroes,” South Korea views it as a humanitarian gesture to return the remains of invading forces, similar to the repatriation of 88 out of 143 sets from Arrowhead Ridge.

Excavation of Chinese remains serves as a stark reminder of war’s tragedy

At White Horse Hill, South Korean and Chinese remains were found commingled. Reconstructing the bones revealed “family breadwinners,” fostering empathy for these casualties of war, despite their former enemy status.
The Defense Ministry uses DNA analysis and personal effects to identify remains. Chinese remains are returned to coincide with Qingming Festival, a poignant gesture on the 30th anniversary of South Korea-China diplomatic relations.

South Korea’s humanitarian efforts set an international example

South Korea also recovers and repatriates U.S. and North Korean remains. Despite Chinese retaliation and COVID-19 challenges, Seoul has honored its 12-year commitment. This adherence to international law symbolizes a dedication to peace.
While China emphasizes “military diplomatic cooperation” during repatriation ceremonies, critics argue it overlooks the history of invasion. The White Horse Hill remains represent a step towards reconciliation.

Excavation efforts continue

Work persists on the southern side of the DMZ at White Horse Hill. By 2025, 25 sets of South Korean remains will be recovered. Chinese remains found alongside will be returned annually.
The Defense Ministry pledges to continue “until the last one is found.” They preserve over 5,000 personal effects, hoping to reunite them with families, as part of ongoing efforts to heal war wounds.

A bittersweet legacy of victory at White Horse Hill

The ROK 9th Division’s triumph at White Horse Hill is legendary in Korean War history. However, the mounds of remains underscore its tragic cost. The repatriation of Chinese soldiers symbolizes efforts to heal historical animosities.
The exchange of remains at Incheon Airport sends a message of peace. Honoring all war victims, regardless of allegiance, paves the way for a better future.