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North Korea’s state media has recommended dog meat soup as a traditional remedy against extreme summer heat, as temperatures climb across the Korean Peninsula.
North Korea’s state media has once again promoted dog meat soup as a traditional food believed to help people cope with extreme summer temperatures. (Photo: AP)
North Korea’s state media has once again promoted dog meat soup as a traditional way to cope with extreme summer temperatures, as an intense heatwave continues to affect the Korean Peninsula, according to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).
The report said the ruling Workers’ Party newspaper Rodong Sinmun published a health advisory on Sunday, offering guidance on preventing heat-related illnesses and suggesting foods believed to help people withstand the scorching weather.
Quoting a senior doctor at Pyongyang General Hospital, the report warned that extreme heat could worsen existing medical conditions.
“Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and hyperthyroidism can worsen due to heat exhaustion and heatstroke,” the doctor was quoted as saying by SCMP, citing Rodong Sinmun.
Dog Meat Soup Among Recommended Foods
According to the report, people have been advised to eat cooling foods such as watermelon, cucumbers and mung beans.
It also recommended “highly nutritious foods,” including dog meat soup, fish porridge and red bean porridge.
SCMP reported that dog meat soup, locally known as dangogi guk or “sweet meat soup,” has long been promoted by the North Korean government as a traditional health tonic believed to help combat summer heat.
However, the report noted that despite its official promotion, the dish remains costly and is not affordable for many North Koreans.
Former North Korean diplomat Ri Chol told This Week in Asia, as quoted by SCMP, that the dish continues to enjoy popularity despite its price.
“Dangogi is popular in the North, but it is a pricey food. It is mostly consumed on hot summer days to help fend off heat exhaustion,” Ri said.
According to SCMP, Pyongyang has spent decades encouraging the consumption of dog meat by opening speciality restaurants along the Taedong River and registering regional recipes as part of the country’s cultural heritage.
The report added that authorities also organise annual cooking competitions in the capital to elevate the status of dog meat cuisine, presenting it as a traditional and patriotic food associated with enduring the summer season.
Contrast With South Korea
SCMP highlighted that North Korea’s continued promotion of dog meat sharply contrasts with developments in neighbouring South Korea.
The report said South Korea passed legislation in 2024 banning the breeding, slaughter, distribution and sale of dogs for human consumption.
The law provides a three-year transition period ending in February 2027, after which violators could face up to three years in prison or fines of up to 30 million South Korean won (approximately US$22,000).
Heatwave Grips Both Koreas
According to the report, North Korea has been experiencing a series of tropical nights since July 27, with overnight temperatures remaining above 25 degrees Celsius.
SCMP reported that the Korean Central Broadcasting Station said a sweltering heat advisory would remain in place until Sunday across much of the country, with daytime temperatures expected to range between 33°C and 35°C and average humidity exceeding 70 per cent.
A separate high-temperature advisory has also been issued through Saturday for Pyongyang, North Pyongan Province, parts of Jagang Province, and sections of central and southern North Korea, where temperatures are forecast to reach between 35°C and 40°C.
The report further noted that South Korea is also experiencing one of its most severe heatwaves in decades, with temperatures recently crossing 40°C in parts of the southeast.
According to SCMP, forecasters believe Typhoon Dolphin, which is moving towards Japan, is unlikely to provide relief.
Instead, two powerful heat domes surrounding the Korean Peninsula are expected to block the storm, allowing only hot, dry winds to reach South Korea.
About the Author
Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has more than 10 years of experience in national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.
August 05, 2026, 14:26 IST
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