Rescued lab beagles to find new homes at adoption event in Seoul

This undated photo shows an identification number marked on the ear of a laboratory beagle donated by a pharmaceutical company. Courtesy of Beagle Rescue Network

Beagles once confined to laboratories will be looking for their forever homes at a special adoption event this weekend in Myeong-dong, one of Seoul’s most popular tourist and shopping districts.

Animal welfare group Beagle Rescue Network, known for its efforts to save and rehabilitate research dogs, will host the Be Happy Beagle Adoption Fair at Community House Masil in central Seoul on Saturday. Following the success of its inaugural event in June, the fair returns this fall to raise awareness about the plight of laboratory animals and promote a culture of responsible, compassionate adoption.

The fair, organized by Professor Kang So-young of Seoul Digital University, will be held under the theme “Adoption is a life, a responsibility, a promise.” Organizers hope to remind the public that adopting a pet is not merely a generous act, but a lifelong commitment to protect and care for another living being.

“Only about one out of every 10,000 beagles used in laboratory experiments ever make it out alive. It underscores how far we still have to go in ending animal testing and developing humane alternatives,” a Beagle Rescue Network staff member told The Korea Times.

The upcoming event will offer a variety of programs designed to engage the public. It will begin with a ceremony honoring families who adopted beagles at the first event, where they will receive gifts from partnering brands. Potential adopters will also be given welcome packages.

Open to both pet owners and nonowners, the event invites anyone interested in seeking adoption consultations or learning more about animal welfare.

A poster for the Be Happy Beagle Adoption Fair / Courtesy of Professor Kang So-young

The fair will offer interactive sessions and community activities, including pet yoga classes and workshops on training and grooming led by animal care professionals.

Visitors can also enjoy free pet tarot readings that explore the bond between humans and their companion animals. A small marketplace will sell eco-friendly goods, such as tote bags and pouches decorated with beagle illustrations, with all proceeds supporting rescue and rehabilitation programs.

The main exhibition area will highlight stories of recovery through multimedia displays. Featured works include a photography series by Soongsil University Professor Kim Jin-seob, documentary clips by producer Ji Deok-yong and a short film project by artificial intelligence lecturer Jo Sung-mi — all offered as acts of creative volunteerism.

Alongside the festivities, the Beagle Rescue Network will conduct an anti-animal-testing petition, drawing attention to ongoing ethical concerns about laboratory research, including opposition to a proposed testing facility at Kangwon National University.

Youn Ye-jin is a Korea Times intern.