North Korea Promotes Traditional Dog Meat Soup as Heatwave Remedy
Pyongyang: As an intense heatwave grips North Korea, the country’s state media has once again promoted traditional dog meat soup, locally known as Dangogi Guk, as a remedy to help people cope with soaring temperatures. The recommendation has drawn international attention and renewed debate over cultural traditions, public health claims, and animal welfare.
With temperatures reportedly climbing above 40°C in parts of the country, authorities have encouraged citizens to consume the traditional soup, claiming it helps improve stamina, supports digestion, and enables the body to better withstand extreme summer heat. The dish has long been regarded by some in North Korea as a seasonal food believed to restore energy during the hottest months of the year.
According to state-backed reports, the soup is presented as a nutritious meal rather than simply a culinary tradition. Officials suggest that consuming it during the summer can help people maintain physical strength while dealing with prolonged periods of high temperatures.
However, the promotion has sparked criticism from international animal rights organizations, which oppose the consumption of dog meat and argue that such practices raise serious ethical and welfare concerns. Several advocacy groups have called for greater protection of animals and urged governments worldwide to discourage the trade and consumption of dog meat.
The issue also highlights the contrast between cultural practices in different parts of the world. While the consumption of dog meat has declined significantly in several Asian countries due to changing public attitudes and stricter animal welfare laws, it continues to remain a traditional practice in some regions, including parts of North Korea.
Experts note that there is no widely accepted scientific evidence showing that dog meat soup offers unique protection against heat-related illnesses compared with a balanced diet, proper hydration, and medical advice. Health professionals generally recommend drinking sufficient water, avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme heat, and consuming nutritious foods to reduce the risk of heat-related conditions.
As North Korea continues to promote the traditional dish during the ongoing heatwave, the debate has once again brought global attention to the intersection of culture, public health, and animal welfare, with opinions remaining sharply divided across different societies.
Keywords: North Korea, Heatwave, Dog Meat Soup, Dangogi Guk, Kim Jong Un, Summer Health, Animal Welfare, International News.
