In the wake of devastating wildfires across South Korea, Korean K9 Rescue is working tirelessly to save abandoned and displaced dogs. This emergency effort sheds light on the resilience of these animals—and the urgent need for support.
Last week, a massive wildfire erupted across parts of Gyeongnam and Gyeongbuk provinces in South Korea. In Uiseong-gun, the containment rate was under 5%. Entire communities were being evacuated, homes were destroyed, and farm animals and dogs—many tied up and left behind—were at serious risk.
Our Korean K9 Rescue team immediately mobilized alongside Lucy’s Hope, bringing emergency supplies, food, and medical support into active fire zones. What began as a crisis response turned into one of the most heartbreaking rescue efforts we’ve faced to date.
19 Dogs Rescued from a Dog Meat Farm
While heading toward fire-ravaged areas, our team stumbled upon an illegal dog meat farm. Nineteen dogs were locked in rusted cages, surrounded by thick smoke, desperate for water, and just hours from death by smoke inhalation.
We didn’t expect to find them. The fire came fast. But once we saw them, we had no choice. We saved every single dog.
Many of these survivors are mothers with litters, including newborns clinging to life. Now safe, they remain deeply traumatized and in urgent need of long-term care.
Phoenix: A Mother’s Instinct
One of the dogs we found was Phoenix, trapped in a cage with her six newborn puppies. When our team reached her, they discovered she had taken the fire for her babies—her nose and belly were scorched. She had shielded them with her own body.
Phoenix is now hospitalized, undergoing burn treatment and oxygen therapy. She is still nursing her puppies. She is still fighting.
Bomi: Pregnant and Struggling to Breathe
We also rescued Bomi, who was found chained, heavily pregnant, and barely breathing. Despite being surrounded by destruction, she wagged her tail as if she knew she was finally safe.
Smoke had filled her lungs, and now at our Rescue Center, she is just days away from giving birth. We are monitoring her closely. Any sign of distress will lead to immediate hospitalization. Our team is committed to ensuring Bomi and her puppies have a fighting chance.
Mujin: Helpless in the Middle of the Road
In Cheongsong County, while en route to another site, our team spotted a small dog lying alone and still in the middle of the road. They immediately stopped and brought Mujin to safety. He is now recovering thanks to fast action and compassion in a chaotic environment.
The Bigger Picture
As of this update, 34 dogs have been rescued, and more than 50 have received emergency medical treatment for burns, smoke inhalation, or trauma. The wildfire has already claimed at least four human lives and scorched over 22,000 acres in South Gyeongsang province. Entire communities—human and animal alike—are affected.
This work isn’t just rescue. It’s recovery. And it’s far from over.
How You Can Help
We’ve launched a $15,000 emergency fundraising campaign to support wildfire rescues. As of now, over $11,000 has been raised, and thanks to a generous donor, all donations are being matched up to $5,000.
💛 $25 = $50
💛 $100 = $200
💛 Every dollar helps save a life
Donate today:
Venmo: @KoreanK9Rescue
PayPal: koreank9rescue@gmail.com
koreank9rescue.org/donate
You can also support by:
Fostering or adopting a wildfire survivor
Sharing their stories to raise awareness
These dogs didn’t choose their circumstances—but we can choose to fight for their future. From Phoenix’s protective love to Bomi’s strength, to Mujin’s quiet resilience in the road… every life matters.
We won’t stop until every last one is safe.
To stay up to date on wildfire rescues, follow us on Instagram @koreank9rescue or visit our website at www.koreank9rescue.org.