Koreas negotiate reunion of families separated by war.

Renata Giraldi*
Reporter from Agência Brasil

Brasilia – The governments of South and North Korea resumed talks today (23) in search of an agreement to promote reunions between families separated during the war that divided the two countries (1950-1953). Talks seeking an agreement were interrupted in 2010, when tensions between the two governments worsened. The Koreas still maintain a tense relationship.

Organized at the request of South Korea, the meeting began in the border village of Panmunjom, with the aim of resolving the issue and promoting a new gathering between families on September 19, when the harvest festival (Chuseok, in Korean), one of the most important celebrations on the peninsula, takes place.

"The issue of families separated by war is one of the most pressing matters right now. I will do everything I can to alleviate their pain through dialogue," said Lee Duck-hang, leader of the South Korean mediation team.

Experts say the meeting is crucial for the approximately 73 South Koreans who requested it, as 80% of them are over 70 years old.