Gui Junmin cryogenically froze his wife, Zhan Wenlian, in 2017 after she died of lung cancer, making her the first person in China to undergo such preservation. He signed a 30-year contract with the Shandong Yinfeng Life Science Research Institute, hoping future technology would allow for her resurrection and that new treatments would be available for her cancer.
Zhan's body has been stored at -190 degrees Celsius in liquid nitrogen since then. After two years of grieving and struggling with loneliness, Gui Junmin decided he could not manage life alone, especially after a severe gout attack left him incapacitated.
He was introduced to a new girlfriend, Wang Chunxia, through a mutual friend. However, Gui described their relationship as "utilitarian," stating that Chunxia had not truly captured his heart and that she could not replace his wife.
He feels a sense of responsibility towards her but also acknowledges the complexity of his situation, needing to move forward with life while not forgetting his past. Chunxia now primarily serves as his caregiver, assisting him with daily tasks due to his recent coronary stent surgery.
The news of Gui's new relationship has sparked public debate and criticism, with some accusing him of "emotional polygamy" and questioning his intentions regarding his frozen wife's potential resurrection. Gui maintains a clear conscience, stating he was mentally prepared for public reaction.
Social media reactions are divided, with some expressing concern for his wife's future and others understanding his need to live in the present.
