A man in China who lost his hearing and speech abilities as a child has reunited with his biological family after 35 years of separation, officials and local media reported.

The case involves Li Zhecheng, who went missing in 1991 in Henan province after accidentally boarding a train while playing with friends. He was unable to communicate his identity or home address due to his disabilities and was later separated from his family for decades.

The long search for Li Zhecheng concluded after a message surfaced in an online chat group, where his name—written in reverse as part of a childhood habit—was recognized by his older brother, who also has hearing and speech impairments.

According to reports, the family initially made contact through digital messages before verifying shared childhood memories. A DNA test was arranged to confirm the relationship, although the emotional reunion took place before the results were officially released.

Family members traveled to Shenzhen, where Li had been living, leading to an emotional meeting after 35 years apart. Relatives described the reunion as deeply emotional, with multiple family members present during the meeting.

Authorities later confirmed the match through DNA testing, verifying that Li Zhecheng had been reunited with his biological family.

During the reunion, the family also expressed gratitude to individuals who had supported Li over the years, including those who provided him shelter, care, and employment during his years away from home.

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