In South Korea, “‘Boknal’ days—often misleadingly referred to as a festival” (https://www.hsi.org/news-media/boknal-days/ is a three-week event occurring during “the three hottest days of the summer according to the lunar calendar” (https://awionline.org/dogmeat The days include consumption of dog meat in colossal quantities. “…sometime in the last century the practice was taken up by a few older men for mythical health benefits regarding virility” (AWI). The believers in the tradition support the idea that dog meat helps to keep one cool. Even further, “…due to a traditional belief that high adrenaline levels will produce tender meat and increase the supposed health benefits—dogs who are killed may be intentionally subjected to extreme fear and suffering” (AWI). About two million dogs are killed every year In South Korea mainly, but not exclusively, for the purpose of the Boknal days. 

There are no scientific studies showing evidence of dog meat having any beneficial medicinal properties. We believe education, legislation enforcements, replacement job opportunities for those working in the industry, and modern technology becoming available to help with health during hot weather can all help combat this misleading myth and tradition.

To help us achieve and contribute to tangible and simple solutions to help end the dog meat trade altogether, we will need support. We feel we can be these sweet dogs’ voices and advocates, which will save their lives and the lives of future pups finding themselves in this horrific environment. Please sign our petition and share, share, share!