At least one in four households in Korea — around 6.02 million homes or 15 million people — has a pet as of 2022, according to the latest data.
Among pets, dogs have gained significant attention and status over recent years. The law banning the sale and production of dog meat was passed last year.
Despite such advancements, many dogs continue to face harsh realities, with overcrowding and poor conditions in numerous local shelters frequently leading to fatalities.
The Harsh Reality
Stray dogs are rarely seen in Korea, especially in urban areas like Seoul, as they are typically sent to local animal shelters when found wandering.
State-run shelters hold these dogs for seven days to allow owners to reclaim them. After this period, the dogs become city property and are eligible for adoption or, tragically, euthanasia.
While some shelters provide good care, many struggle with limited capacity, understaffing and a lack of resources. As a result, many dogs succumb to disease, hunger, or extreme weather conditions.
Fortunately, there are various ways you can help these dogs find a better future.
How to Help
1. Volunteer at local animal shelters
While not all dog shelters take volunteers, many welcome volunteers. To get involved, contact your city’s team in charge of wildlife via the city office. If unsure where to call, call the city office directly and ask to be connected to the relevant bureau.
For example, Hanam Shelter (@hanam_shelter) in Gyeonggi accepts volunteers on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Morning and afternoon slots are available, with a maximum of two volunteers per session.
To volunteer, you should contact the local wildlife conservation team reachable at 031-790-5853 at least a week in advance.
Volunteering typically involves cleaning and bathing dogs, but you will also have time to interact with them and give affection once necessary chores are done.
Some state-run shelters known to welcome volunteers include:
- Miryang Animal Shelter (@miryang_adopt ) **The shelter is set to conduct euthanasia on multiple dogs this month. If you are considering adopting or fostering a dog, please contact 070-4113- 7288, or the Instagram account (run by a volunteer, but still can be contacted for info.)
- Dangjin Animal Shelter
- Iksan Animal Shelter (@iksan_official_dogshelter)
- Hwaseong Banryeomaru (@bmaru_hs)
- Yongin Animal Shelter (@yongin_animal_care_)
- Buan Animal Shelter in North Jeolla (@adoptnow_119)
2. Volunteer at non-profit organizations and private shelters
There are non-profit shelters and rescue organizations that save dogs at risk of euthanasia from state-run animal shelters. These organizations house tens to hundreds of dogs and are always in need of help.
Few non-profit organizations that welcome volunteers:
- WEACT (@weact_dogs)
- LCKD (@helpshelter)
- Banryeomaru (@bmaru_hs)
- Neowahamgaenyang (@neowahamgaenyang)
- Stardang (@byeollae_stardangdang)
