by Yoo Na-hyunPosted : March 23, 2026, 17:43Updated : March 23, 2026, 17:43
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Volunteer groomers look at dogs waiting for adoption after grooming them at Banryeomaru Hwaseong in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, on March 23, 2026. Yonhap. 2026.03.23
SEOUL, March 23 (AJP) - From social media feeds filled with wagging tails to corporate campaigns backing animal welfare, South Korea joined the global celebration of National Puppy Day on Sunday, highlighting a growing culture of pet companionship — and responsibility.
A volunteer grooms a dog waiting for adoption at Banryeomaru Hwaseong in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, on March 23. 2026. Yonhap. 2026.03.23
Established in 2006 by U.S. pet lifestyle expert Colleen Paige, the day has evolved into an international campaign promoting the protection of abandoned dogs and encouraging adoption. Pet owners around the world took part online using the hashtag #NationalPuppyDay.
In Korea, companies joined the movement with a mix of donations and awareness campaigns.
Volunteer groomers look at dogs waiting for adoption after grooming them at Banryeomaru Hwaseong in Hwaseong, Gyeonggi Province, on March 23, 2026. Yonhap. 2026.3.23.
The Seoul Gangdong Reborn Center, an abandoned dog shelter, is seen on March 23, 2026. Yonhap. 2026.03.23
Pet food maker Royal Canin said it donated 10 tons of tailored food for abandoned animals to shelters nationwide. Fashion brand Hazzys launched an “Adopt, Don’t Shop” campaign to promote adoption over purchasing pets.
Convenience store chain CU added a lighter touch, introducing a “custom beer” service that prints customers’ pet photos on cans — blending pet culture with everyday consumption.
The surge in participation reflects a broader shift. South Korea is now home to an estimated 15 million pet owners, as animals increasingly take on the role of family members.
With that growth, however, comes rising concern over abandonment and ethical ownership.
National Puppy Day is gaining traction not just as a celebration, but as a reminder — that behind every viral puppy photo is a longer-term commitment, and for many animals, a second chance still depends on it.
The Seoul Gangdong Reborn Center, an abandoned dog shelter, is seen on March 23, National Puppy Day, in Seoul. Yonhap. 2026.3.23.