North Koreans are being encouraged to eat dog meat soup to boost their health as a severe heat wave affects Northeast Asia. Local authorities have been issuing heat warnings, advising residents to limit outdoor activities as high temperatures strain public health systems, electricity grids, and agriculture.

Advice from Local Authorities

The Rodong Sinmun, North Korea’s official Workers’ Party newspaper, featured an interview with a senior doctor at Pyongyang General Hospital. The doctor shared advice for managing health in hot weather, emphasizing the importance of lowering body heat. Foods like watermelon, grapes, cucumbers, and oriental melons were recommended.

Protein Intake

For protein, the doctor suggested fish and red-bean porridge, along with dog meat soup, known locally as dongogi or “sweet meat.” He explained that a lack of protein could weaken immunity and reduce appetite.

Cultural Perspectives on Dog Meat

Dog meat soup has historical significance on the Korean Peninsula, but perceptions differ greatly between North and South Korea. In South Korea, the dish is called bosintang and was traditionally consumed on the hottest days of the year for its supposed revitalizing properties in the summer heat.

However, consumption in South Korea has greatly decreased, particularly among younger generations, due to increasing animal welfare concerns. In 2024, South Korea enacted a law prohibiting the breeding, slaughtering, distribution, and sale of dogs for consumption, allowing a three-year transition period until February 2027.

Heat Wave Impacts Across Northeast Asia

The Rodong Sinmun interview coincides with a severe heat wave affecting regions in Northeast Asia, including North and South Korea, Japan, and parts of China. South Korea experienced its highest temperature recorded at 108.5 degrees Fahrenheit on August 2. This led President Lee Jae Myung to declare the situation a “national disaster.”

Additionally, Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency reported over 18,000 individuals hospitalized due to heatstroke between July 20-26, with 45 resultant deaths.