This combined photo shows pet dogs with mock alcoholic beverages. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, June 23 (Korea Bizwire) — Mock alcoholic beverages for pets are gaining popularity in South Korea.
There are now more than 3,500 mock alcoholic beverages for pets like soju, beer, makgeolli and wine available in Naver Store.
More than 8,000 photos with hashtags related to pet liquor have been posted on Instagram.
These beverages are popular among pet owners who wish to make unique memories with their pets on a special day.
The beverages do not contain alcohol, but closely imitate the color and shape of ordinary alcoholic drinks, which is the fun part.
“My friend gave me a pet soju as a gift. I had so much fun with my dog, Butter,” said Kim, a 25-year-old owner of a Pompitz. “It really felt like I was having a drink with my dog, which was quite fun.”
Pet liquor is popular for its healthy ingredients.
Pet wines and soju are made with cabbage, helping pets’ digestion. For pet beers, pear extracts are included to create the yellowish, beer-like color, which helps with the pet’s immune system.
“The increasing population of pet owners has led to a stronger belief that pets are ‘family’,” said Lee Eun-hee, a consumer studies professor at Inha University. “It has then coupled with a practical consumption trend that seeks out both fun and health.”
“More eccentric products are expected to be released to cater to the needs of the so-called ‘pet lovers’,” Lee added.
H. M. Kang (hmkang@koreabizwire.com)
