Families in tears still hold hope, Woe begone faces everywhere
P.3, Chosun Daily, Jun. 16, 1956

The Korean Red Cross began to receive reports on around 70,000civilian abductees from the 15th of this month, marking the first step to bringing back our patriots taken to the North.
The efforts began as representatives of the International Red Cross requested more materials needed for the process of repatriating civilian abductees after meeting with delegates of the Korean Red Cross last month in Korea. People with downcast expressions came to the headquarters of the Korean Red Cross in Namsan-dong, Jung-gu, Seoul. They stood in a long line before writing detailed information about abductees on registration forms handed out by the Korean Red Cross.

Most people who came to submit reports were middle-aged women. Some wiped away tears as they wrote the names, occupations, and other information about the abductees. As they were submitting their report they asked the employees of the Korean Red Cross whether their husbands would finally come home this time. Kim Bu-pung, wife of An Jae-hong, cried as she said that she feels hopeful just hearing that her husband might come home.

Reports on abductees can be submitted until August 15, including Sundays. Families of civilian abductees living in other cities can submit the required information on a piece of paper to the branch office or headquarters of the Korea Red Cross by mail. A stamp must be enclosed with the report in order to receive a letter from the Korean Red Cross stating whether the registration process has been completed or not. As of noon, more than 200 people have already submitted reports, showing the possibility of success.

Korean Red Cross and governors are planning to take additional measures to encourage families to submit reports.