As the heatwave continues, July 30 will mark Jungbok, traditionally considered the hottest day of the Sambok period, which refers to the three hottest days of summer in Korea. In previous years, intense debates often arose during Boknal regarding the consumption of dog meat. Since that time, public discussions surrounding animal rights have become increasingly active.

As a result of these discussions, on January 9 of last year, the National Assembly enacted the “Special Act on Ending the Breeding, Slaughter, and Distribution of Dogs for Consumption.” An enforcement decree was established in August of the same year. The core content of this law is the prohibition of breeding, selling, or slaughtering dogs for the purpose of consumption. Although the law is currently in effect, it includes a three-year grace period. From February 7, 2027, the breeding and selling of dogs for food will be completely banned. In response, groups such as Animal Liberation Wave have begun a 40-day journey to raise public awareness about the end of dog meat consumption and related issues.

△ At the Jangdan-e Saleul (literally “Adding Flesh to the Rhythm”) workshop, held in preparation for the Boknal Memorial Ceremony on July 30, choreographer Lee Se-seung and participants practice traditional Korean dance. (Photo provided by Animal Liberation Wave)

Animal Liberation Wave and the International Animal Rights Organization ‘Last Chance for Animals’ (LCA) are currently carrying out the “2025 Boknal Memorial Ceremony: That Body, My Body.” The event is organized by the cultural group Pungnyuhoe. Kim Eun-jung, the artistic director of That Body, My Body, explained the purpose of the event as follows: “Even though the special law has been enacted, there are still dogs who cannot be saved. This memorial ceremony is an act of solidarity and love that transforms our sorrow and helplessness, and it is a ritual to honor life.”

Throughout July, That Body, My Body is holding a total of ten workshops, including traditional shamanic rituals and dances centered on the body, as well as humanities lectures. On Jungbok, July 30, a public gathering will take place at Seoul City Hall Plaza to share mourning and love. The event will begin at 2:00 p.m. and will include a citizens’ open-mic session, a group dance performance led by choreographer Lee Se-seung involving over 100 citizens, and a traditional shamanic memorial ritual. The main ritual will be presided over by shaman Park Pil-su, accompanied by Nam Ki-seong on the janggu (traditional drum) and Bona on the jing (large gong), creating a solemn ceremony that honors souls and awakens the sense of life. The ritual will conclude with a vibrant performance by the musical group Yangban-deul (Jeon Beom-seon, Ddalgi, Lee Ji-hoon, Nugi, and Yoon Seong-ho).

△ Promotional poster for the “2025 Boknal Memorial Ceremony: That Body, My Body”

Kim Eun-jung described the ceremony as “a contemporary pungnyu (traditional aesthetic of refined enjoyment) that embraces sorrow and joy, fear and love with an open heart. It is a ritual space in which mourning and gratitude, anger and blessing are interwoven.” Approximately 200 young people who are committed to protecting life are expected to gather at Seoul City Hall Plaza on the day of the event.

Nenia is supporting the That Body, My Body campaign, described as “actions for the vanished bodies and the breaths that remain,” by sponsoring the event with plant-based bread and beverages on July 30 (Boknal). The snacks provided by Nenia are not merely food to satisfy hunger; they embody the company’s philosophy of valuing life, which Nenia has consistently pursued.

Among the twelve products currently produced by Nenia Bread, eight are vegan. These breads are made with organic wheat flour that Nenia purchases directly from farmers. Representative products include Nenia Whole Wheat Ciabatta and Nenia Plain Sourdough Parbaked Bread. 

Nenia also operates VegeLAB, a research initiative focused on plant-based foods. VegeLAB develops alternative food products made entirely from 100% plant-based ingredients, without the use of chemical additives. Representative products from VegeLAB include Nenia Yellow Mini Vegan Dumplings, Nenia Whole Wheat Crispy Glass Noodle Dumplings, and Nenia Pressed Soy Meat.

△ Nenia’s 100% Plant-Based Bread: Nenia Organic Plain Sourdough Parbaked Bread