Many families like Hyun's became separated from the places they knew and the people they loved. In the decades since, North Korea has become increasingly isolated from the world, led by a dynasty of dictators that wants the reunification of the Koreas but under its own terms. Unlocated picture taken January 18, 1951, shows Korean refugees passing frozen rice fields as they fled to the south. Credit: AFP/Getty Images While the two countries have allowed select families to reunite for brief and emotional meetings, most families that were separated during the war have never been able to see their loved ones.