Scientists Reconstruct Face of Fallen PLA Soldier After 75 Years in Unmarked Grave

Researchers at Fudan University have reconstructed the face of an unidentified Chinese People’s Liberation Army soldier. The soldier died decades ago at the Majitang battlefield in Hunan Province. His remains were among 57 recovered during an excavation, belonging to at least nine martyrs. The soldier’s remains were buried outdoors for over 75 years. Moisture, soil erosion, and environmental damage made DNA extraction difficult. Despite this, scientists used DNA analysis, digital archaeology, and facial reconstruction to rebuild his appearance with up to 90% accuracy.

The reconstructed face shows sharp features, a high nose bridge, and single eyelids. The soldier was around 20 years old at death, based on skeletal development. A bullet hole in the top of his skull was identified as the fatal injury through 3D analysis.

The remains were found at Majitang, where over 300 PLA troops died in fierce fighting in the 1940s. One skull was relatively well preserved, aiding the reconstruction process. Authorities are now appealing for information to locate surviving relatives. They hope to compare DNA from the remains with potential descendants. Government agencies and society are collaborating to find leads and identify the soldier’s family.