A man who preserved his deceased wife through cryogenic freezing has stirred controversy by entering into a new relationship.
Gui Junmin decided to freeze his late wife Zhan Wenlian’s body after she succumbed to lung cancer at 49 in 2017, becoming China’s first cryogenically preserved individual. He entered a 30-year agreement with the Shandong Yinfeng Life Science Research Institute to preserve her frozen remains, which were stored for free as part of the institute’s technology trials.
Junmin had planned to reunite with Zhan after the preservation period, hoping that advancements in medical treatments would change her terminal cancer prognosis.
Since 2017, Zhan’s body has been maintained in a 2,000-liter container at -190C in liquid nitrogen at the institute. Chinese media reported that Junmin remained single for two years following his wife’s passing but eventually found it challenging to navigate daily life alone.
Junmin shared with the Chinese newspaper Southern Weekly that a severe gout episode that immobilized him for two days altered his perspective. He expressed the vulnerability of being alone during a crisis, leading him to seek companionship.
Shortly after, Junmin met Wang Chunxia, his new girlfriend, through mutual acquaintances. He described their relationship as pragmatic, emphasizing a sense of duty towards her while acknowledging the complexities of his emotions.
Chunxia primarily assists Junmin, who requires support following coronary stent surgery, as he struggles with mobility.
In response to criticism labeling him as emotionally polygamous, Junmin remained steadfast, asserting his readiness for public scrutiny due to his clear conscience.
The story has garnered significant attention on Chinese social media, with varying opinions on Junmin’s actions. Some speculate about the implications of his wife potentially waking up after 30 years, while others support his decision to prioritize moving forward in life despite past attachments.