A major milestone was reached over the weekend as 50 dogs rescued from a South Korean dog meat farm embarked on their journey to a better life in the United States. The rescue, spearheaded by Humane World for Animals, marks a significant moment in the ongoing battle to end South Korea’s dog meat industry.
Once confined to unsanitary cages with wire flooring, these dogs lived in fear, deprived of basic care, affection, or even the freedom to move. Now, they have stepped onto solid ground, felt the comfort of soft bedding, and experienced the kindness of gentle hands.
A Journey of Hope
The rescued dogs arrived at JFK Airport in New York and were transported to the Humane World for Animals’ rehabilitation center in Maryland. There, they will receive essential veterinary care and emotional rehabilitation. Their ultimate goal is to find loving, permanent homes in the U.S. An additional 17 dogs, including mothers and puppies, will join the rescue group once they are old enough to travel, bringing the total number of dogs saved from the farm to 67.
A Larger Fight to End the Dog Meat Trade
This rescue is part of a larger campaign to dismantle the dog meat industry in South Korea, which is steadily reaching its final phase. With the government set to enforce a complete ban by 2027, nearly 40% of dog meat farms have already closed. Since 2015, Humane World for Animals has played a pivotal role in this progress, shutting down 18 farms and rescuing over 2,700 dogs from inhumane conditions.
One of the latest farm closures occurred at the facility of Mr. Yu in Cheongju, who had operated for 40 years breeding dogs for slaughter. His farm, which served dog meat in his restaurant and sold it at local markets, was shut down for cruelty violations. Now, Mr. Yu is transitioning to chili farming, a testament to the fact that alternative livelihoods are not only possible but essential for those seeking a new path.
Daniel Henney: A Voice for Change
Korean American actor and longtime advocate against the dog meat trade, Daniel Henney, joined the rescue operation on-site in Cheongju. Henney assisted in removing terrified dogs from their cages and even adopted a golden retriever named Juliette, who was herself a survivor of the dog meat trade.
“As a huge dog lover and father to a dog meat farm survivor, it was incredibly difficult to witness the suffering of these dogs,” Henney said. “But I am so proud to support Humane World for Animals’ campaign, which will ensure that no more dogs suffer like this again. South Korea is embracing a new chapter where dogs are friends, not food, and I am thrilled to see that change take shape. I look forward to following the journey of these dogs as they find their forever homes in the U.S.”
A Bright Future for the Rescued Dogs
The dogs, mostly Jindo mixes, now have the chance to experience the love and stability they have long been denied. However, for countless others still trapped in the dog meat trade, time is running out.
Humane World for Animals’ efforts go beyond rescuing individual dogs—they also challenge the cultural stigma that still surrounds survivors of the dog meat industry in South Korea.
“While the legal efforts are succeeding in dismantling the dog meat industry, we are grateful to be able to provide a brighter future for these dogs,” said Sangkyung Lee, campaign manager for Humane World for Animals Korea. “For them, the dog meat industry is a thing of the past. Now, they have soft beds, full bellies, and all the love they could wish for.”
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