Animals at Damyang Market. (image: Civic Group)
DAMYANG, Jun. 24 (Korea Bizwire) — Animal groups are calling on authorities to put an end to animal transactions rampant in a traditional market located in Damyang County, South Jeolla Province.
24 animal groups across the country held a press conference at the market entrance on Saturday and delivered a joint statement.
“Puppies, kittens, and rabbits are locked up in small cages without any water or food, suffering from the scorching heat of the sun,” said the group. “The ones that are sick are given out to passersby for free.”
The group added, “We will continue to hold street campaigns, petitions, and SNS activities jointly with agencies and individuals until the practice is shut down.”
“We are deeply angered by the abuse committed by unlicensed businesses and the delinquency of local governments surrounding the illegal practices.”
Following the press conference, the groups collected signatures on a petition asking Damyang County authorities to crack down on the illegal animal trade.
The county vowed to take legal measures if any illegal practices were found at the market.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
