Health
North Korea Promotes Dog Meat Soup Amidst Record Heatwave
North Korean state media has recommended 'dog meat soup' as a traditional health food to help citizens cope with extreme summer temperatures.
According to a report by Khaosod Online, North Korean state newspaper Rodong Sinmun has issued health guidance advising citizens on how to manage the current record-breaking heatwave. As part of its recommendations for maintaining physical health during extreme temperatures, the publication suggests consuming 'Dangogi guk'—a traditional dog meat soup often referred to as 'sweet meat soup'—alongside other items like watermelon, mung beans, and fish porridge.
The state-run media outlet cited senior medical professionals from the Pyongyang General Hospital, who noted that heat-related exhaustion can exacerbate pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, thyroid issues, and cardiovascular diseases. While the government has long promoted this dish as a traditional nutritional supplement, it remains a controversial topic internationally.
For travelers or residents in the region, this report highlights the government's ongoing efforts to promote traditional dietary practices during climate-related stress. It is important to note that while the state advocates for this menu, the dish is reportedly expensive and difficult to source for the general population. The long-term effectiveness of these specific dietary recommendations in mitigating heat-related health risks remains a matter of state-promoted health policy rather than internationally recognized medical consensus.