Flying Korea’s farmed dogs to safety

One of the most difficult things for many foreigners to accept about living in South Korea, and some other Asian countries, is the custom of eating dogs. For many, the very idea prompts feelings of nausea - while in some countries, including South Korea, it is a hallowed culinary tradition.

It is a clash of cultures - sometimes a raucous, angry clash of cultures. Eating dog is engrained in Korean culture, particularly at the height of summer when by ancient tradition three days are designated as special festivals and thousands of dishes of dog are served, usually in a highly spiced stew.

Gaegogi Jeongol – An elaborate dog stew made in a large Jeongol pan

This month (September), though, opponents have come to an amicable agreement. They have listened to each other and found a way forward.

 A farmer is freeing more than 100 of his dogs and, in return, the animal campaigners - from Humane Society International and the Change For Animals Foundation - have given him some cash and a business plan for a different kind of business.

Dog meat on sale at the Gyeongdong Market in Seoul, South Korea, in April 2008.

The farmer has signed a legally binding contract. His activities will be monitored to ensure he doesn't return to the dog industry, or any other business that involves the slaughter of animals for meat. He has also agreed to talk to other dog farmers, to encourage them to make the change. Dog farmers are often mistrustful of outsiders but are more likely to listen to one of their own.

The dogs were vaccinated a month ago and they will get flown out to new homes in California, starting on Tuesday 15 September.

Namdaemun(Sungnyemun) in Seoul, lit up with traffic and modern buildings, capital city of South Korea, where tastes and attitudes are changing

The campaigners may be fighting a winning battle. As South Korea gets more affluent, attitudes and tastes are changing. Pets are becoming more popular, and people who own pets often don't like the idea of pooches on plates.

In addition, dog farmers are increasingly facing criticism from their families and communities, although many still continue the trade to make a living. Even dog restaurants are closing. Seoul once had 1,500 serving dog, now that figure has fallen to about 700.

Dogs as pets and peeking out of handbags are becoming a popular sight in South Korea

Now that’s good news indeed for man’s best friend.

Click here to read about a man’s fight to save the turtle from the dining table

(All images - credit: Wikimedia Commons under Creative Commons licence)