Ayla and Süleyman: The Untold Story of the Korean War's Unlikely Family

In the midst of the Korean War, a unique story unfolded between a Turkish soldier, Süleyman Dilbirliği, and a young Korean girl named Ayla. Their journey, transcending language and culture, became a moving tale of compassion and resilience that continues to inspire across generations.

The War-Torn Meeting

In 1950, as part of the United Nations’ effort to support South Korea, Turkey sent troops to the Korean Peninsula, including Sergeant Süleyman Dilbirliği. One day, amidst the devastation, Süleyman discovered a five-year-old girl alone, shivering and crying. Her family had presumably perished, leaving her alone in the midst of conflict. Süleyman, drawn by her vulnerability, took her in without hesitation, giving her the name “Ayla” due to her round, moon-like face.

A Bond Beyond Words

Ayla quickly became a beloved figure in the Turkish camp. The bond between her and Süleyman grew stronger with each passing day, as he protected and cared for her like a father. Despite the language barrier, they developed their own form of communication. Süleyman taught her Turkish words, and she called him “Baba” (Father). Their relationship offered a glimpse of normalcy and warmth in an otherwise bleak and chaotic environment.

Forced to Say Goodbye

At the end of his deployment in 1953, Süleyman tried to bring Ayla back to Turkey, hoping to provide her with a better life. However, due to bureaucratic hurdles, Ayla was not permitted to leave Korea. With a heavy heart, Süleyman had to bid farewell to his “daughter.” The separation was heart-wrenching, marking the beginning of a decades-long wait filled with memories and yearning.

Reunited After Sixty Years

Years later, their story resurfaced and gained international attention. Thanks to the dedication of Turkish and South Korean officials, and media involvement, Süleyman and Ayla were finally reunited in 2010, nearly six decades after their initial meeting. Their reunion was a poignant moment, reminding the world of the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. Although Süleyman sadly passed away in 2017, the story of him and Ayla, immortalized by the 2017 film Ayla: The Daughter of War, continues to touch audiences worldwide.

Legacy of Love and Humanity

The story of Ayla and Süleyman goes beyond a simple tale of wartime survival. It highlights the depth of human compassion and the bonds we can form even in the most challenging situations. Ayla’s story remains an enduring symbol of how one small act of kindness can resonate for a lifetime, bridging continents, languages, and cultures.