World War II left a complex legacy in the Chinese mainland, marked by daring rescue missions over the Himalayas and painful memories of the Japanese occupation. In the latest episode of China Popcast, hosts Lucy Lv and Wendyl Martin welcome mountaineer Kevin Wang and Gen Z content creator Jonathan Yao for a gripping conversation about these stories.
Retracing the Hump
Kevin Wang, founder of the "Back to the Hump" expeditions, leads daring journeys across Yunnan's high peaks to uncover wreckage from aircraft that braved an infamous air route known as the Hump. These treacherous flights delivered vital supplies to China during the war, navigating unpredictable weather and towering altitudes. Wang's team uses a mix of historical records and modern GPS to piece together each pilot's final path, breathing life into forgotten heroics.
Unearthing Occupation Memories
Joining the dialogue, Jonathan Yao draws on his video channels to explore the impact of the Japanese occupation in northeast China. Through personal accounts and archival footage, Yao shines a light on how local communities endured hardship and rebuild their lives, forging a collective memory that still resonates with young people today.
Why These Stories Matter
By weaving together firsthand exploration and digital storytelling, this episode uncovers lesser-known chapters of WWII in China. The conversation bridges past and present, showing how history shapes identity and inspires modern-day generations to honor resilience and learn from the past.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
