Koreans Protest Dog Eating 

2009-07-14 12:52

 

A protest was held in South Korea on Tuesday, as a sign of allegiance to man's best friend, the dog.

About twenty protesters gathered in downtown Seoul to demand the government abolish the tradition of eating dog meat.

With elaborate constumes and props, the animal-lovers shouted slogans during a downpour to convince more Koreans to give up the canine cuisine.

[Lee Won-Bok, Protester]:
"Dogs and cats are not livestock, but they are our partners. They are not food, but they are our friends. We should abolish the bad habits of eating dogs or cats."

Dog meat stew, a protein-high dish, is a traditional Korean cuisine first eaten over 1,000 years ago and still finding its place on menus.

But criticism from the West and pet owners has caused a re-think in the country, although South Koreans did ban canine dishes around the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

The nation has become more discreet, with dog meat restaurants usually back-alley fare, while other nations such as Vietnam also offer the dish.