Wild dogs spotted near Seoul National University, students share safety tips
A growing number of wild dogs appear near Seoul National University as students share safety tips online. gettyimagesbank
Sightings of wild dogs around Seoul National University (SNU) in Gwanak District have raised safety concerns among students, prompting them to share advice online on how to respond if they encounter the animals.
According to the Gwanak District Office, a total of 63 wild dogs have been captured in the district between January and October this year — already surpassing last year’s 56 and 46 in 2023. On Oct. 27, six dogs were seen roaming near SNU dormitories before experts from the district office arrived and tranquilized them.
Wild dogs have long been sighted on Mount Gwanak, which borders the SNU campus. Their population, sustained through natural breeding, is estimated at around 30. Due to ongoing safety concerns, SNU has installed traps in nine high-risk areas, including dormitories and faculty buildings, since 2017.
Gwanak District has also operated a five-member capture team of wildlife experts and veterinarians since 2022. Captured animals are sent to an animal protection center for adoption procedures, though those not adopted face euthanasia. All six dogs captured last month reportedly have potential adopters.
Among students, growing unease has led to the circulation of safety tips on what to do when encountering wild dogs. Posts shared on social media platforms frequently used by Seoul National University students advise, “Drop any food you’re holding,” and “Do not look back after passing by a wild dog.”
While attacks on humans are rare, district officials still urge caution. “Wild dogs seldom attack people, but they can threaten pet dogs,” an official said. “We advise against feeding them or approaching the area at night.”
This article from the Hankook Ilbo, the sister publication of The Korea Times, is translated by generative AI and edited by The Korea Times.