A man who decided to preserve his deceased wife through cryogenic freezing has stirred controversy as it came to light that he is now in a new romantic relationship.
Gui Junmin chose to freeze his wife, Zhan Wenlian, following her passing from lung cancer in 2017 at 49 years old, marking her as the first individual in China to undergo cryogenic preservation. He committed to a 30-year agreement with the Shandong Yinfeng Life Science Research Institute to maintain her frozen state. Zhan’s cryogenic preservation was carried out at no cost, as the institute sought volunteers for technology testing.
Junmin’s intention was to be reunited with Zhan upon the completion of the preservation period, hoping that advancements in medical treatments would nullify her terminal cancer diagnosis.
Zhan’s body has been stored in a 2,000-liter container filled with liquid nitrogen at -190°C at the institute since 2017. Chinese media reported that Junmin refrained from entering a new relationship for two years post his wife’s demise. However, he found it challenging to handle everyday life alone and eventually felt incapable of living as a single individual.
In an interview with Chinese newspaper Southern Weekly, Junmin disclosed that a severe gout episode, which left him immobile for two days, altered his perspective. He expressed the realization that being alone in times of crisis could be perilous, stating, “If a person faces a crisis alone, they are helpless. You could pass away at home unnoticed.”
Shortly after this incident, Junmin was introduced to Wang Chunxia, his current girlfriend, through a mutual acquaintance. However, he candidly admitted to the newspaper that their relationship was primarily based on practicality. He mentioned, “She hasn’t captured my heart yet. I feel a duty towards her, but the situation is complex.”
Junmin stressed that Chunxia could never replace his late wife, emphasizing his need to move forward while still cherishing his past. Chunxia mainly fulfills the role of his caretaker, especially after Junmin underwent coronary stent surgery, requiring assistance even for daily activities like crossing the road.
In response to accusations of ’emotional polygamy’ from readers, Junmin calmly addressed public criticism, asserting his readiness for scrutiny by saying, “I am not concerned. I was mentally prepared for this interview. I have a clear conscience, so there is nothing to fear.”
This story has generated significant discussion on Chinese social media, with contrasting views expressed by netizens. While some pondered the scenario of the wife being revived after 30 years and its implications, others empathized with Junmin’s decision, emphasizing the importance of moving forward despite past circumstances.