A private dog shelter in Yuseong District, Daejeon housing 596 abandoned dogs is once again confronting the threat of demolition due to a zoning violation. (Image courtesy of Sion Shelter)
DAEJEON, May 22 (Korea Bizwire) – A private dog shelter in Yuseong District, Daejeon housing 596 abandoned dogs is once again confronting the threat of demolition due to a zoning violation.
The facility, known as Sion Shelter, was established nine years ago when its director, Oh Eun-sook, rescued 22 dogs being bred for human consumption on a whim.
Initially, the dogs were sheltered on farmland owned by Oh’s father. However, the land was designated strictly for agricultural purposes, rendering the dog shelter an illegal non-agricultural operation.
Nearby residents have also lodged numerous complaints. Last year, 161 residents collectively filed a grievance with the Yuseong District Office, citing noise and odor as primary concerns.
The district office subsequently issued a warning, demanding the restoration of the agricultural land by August 30. Failure to dismantle the 3,290 square-meter facility and return it to its original state would result in a penalty of approximately 48 million won, with officials threatening to forcibly carry out the eviction.
Meanwhile, amendments to the Animal Protection Act enacted in April of last year established a legal framework for the legitimization and support of private animal shelters nationwide.
However, a survey conducted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs revealed that 80 out of 102 surveyed facilities were located in areas designated for livestock breeding or development restrictions, violating regulations and procedures.
SARA’s mission is to rescue and protect abandoned animals while promoting a culture of respect for life. (Image courtesy of Sion Shelter)
Sion Shelter has been negotiating with the Yuseong District Office to find a solution. On May 10, an incorporated association called SARA (Sion Animal Rescue Association) was established with the assistance of veterinarians, lawyers, accountants, and administrators.
SARA’s mission is to rescue and protect abandoned animals while promoting a culture of respect for life. This legal entity was created solely through voluntary efforts and pro-bono professional services, without government or local authority support.
After negotiations with the district office, a phased demolition plan was agreed upon. A single demolition would leave the 596 abandoned dogs without shelter, so the restoration process will occur gradually in three stages.
Following the restoration, Sion Shelter is expected to construct new kennels in compliance with regulatory standards for livestock facilities.
Having faced multiple demolition threats, the shelter has reached a critical juncture where further delays are untenable. The first phase of demolition and restoration must be completed by August 30th.
The shelter has received an estimate of approximately 35 million won to dismantle the kennels and dispose of accumulated waste. Oh announced plans to hold a fundraising bazaar for supporters in June to raise the necessary funds.
“Private dog shelters emerged because the government and local authorities cannot accommodate all abandoned dogs,” noted Oh.
“We hope citizens and local governments can work together to find ways for animals and humans to coexist harmoniously.”
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
