14th April 2005, 9:59 PM
To the best of my knowledge, they live in all versions of the game. I played on the original SNES and on the PS, and they all lived (except Tellah) in both versions. Can't say what happened to everyone in Japan. Besides, in Cid's case, you find him later and he helps you upgrade your airship. Intrepid players can find Yang in a hidden cave in the underworld, where he gives you a useful hidden summon, Sylph, which is like a souped up Drain for the whole party.
The Earthworker Race has ended. Everybody wins.