However, around 93,000 of them subsequently passed away. Among those alive, about 67 per cent are 80 years old or older.
As the two sides are technically still at war, most will not have the chance to meet their loved ones again.
VIDEO MESSAGES THAT LIVE ON
Since 2005, the South Korean government, along with the Red Cross, have helped more than 24,000 South Koreans record video messages for their loved ones in the North.
Participants hope that even if they pass away, their digital messages will live on and one day be delivered to their intended recipients in North Korea.
Mr Cha Hyung Mo is among those who have recorded a video message in hopes that it will someday reach his family on the other side of the border.
The 89-year-old has been searching for his family for the past 75 years. His brother and sister would be about 78 and 75 years old respectively today.