Severe heat is observed in North Korea, prompting the government to issue a recommendation for consuming dog meat soup as protection against the heat. The state newspaper Rodong Sinmun published this consultation on Sunday, advising people to eat food that strengthens the body during hot days.
In addition to watermelon, cucumbers, and beans, the recommendation also includes dog meat soup. The government claims that this traditional food strengthens the body and helps reduce the effects of heat. This recommendation appeared at a time when both North and South Korea are suffering from extreme heat.
The state newspaper, citing a senior doctor from Pyongyang General Hospital, warned that rising temperatures can exacerbate diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism. Therefore, the population is advised to consume nutritious food, drink more water, and avoid heatstroke. Dog meat soup has long been consumed in North Korea during the summer and is considered a traditional tonic for health there.
Despite the fact that this soup is quite expensive and not accessible to everyone, the North Korean government has promoted its consumption for many years. Special restaurants offering this dish exist in the capital, Pyongyang. Furthermore, the government periodically holds culinary contests dedicated to dog meat dishes, emphasizing that it is part of the country's ancient culinary traditions.
Meanwhile, South Korea has adopted the opposite stance. In 2024, a law was passed there prohibiting the keeping of dogs for food, as well as banning their slaughter, sale, and distribution. This law will fully take effect in February 2027. Violators may face imprisonment for up to three years or a fine of 30 million South Korean won.
In North Korea, temperatures have remained above 25 degrees Celsius for several consecutive nights since July 27. It is forecast that daytime temperatures in some areas will reach 33–35 degrees Celsius, while in others they may reach 40 degrees Celsius. On the other hand, South Korea is also experiencing one of the hottest waves in many decades. In light of this, North Korea has once again turned to its old traditional methods of combating the heat.
