Rescue dogs will walk a red carpet in search of new families while pet owners join discussions on coping with animal loss during the inaugural Seoul Daengnyang Days festival at the Oil Tank Culture Park in Mapo-gu on Saturday, the Seoul Metropolitan Government announced.
Red-Carpet Adoptions and Expert Grief Counseling
The festival schedule features a red-carpet adoption event from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. Rescued dogs from foster homes will step onto the runway to meet prospective adopters, according to reports from The Korea Herald. Later in the afternoon at 4:00 p.m., the event shifts toward pet loss with a talk titled “Today, Hello Again.” Veterinarian and animal trainer Seol Chae-hyeon and Cho Ji-hoon, who operates a pet-loss counseling service, will lead a discussion on emotionally preparing for separation and managing grief.
Interactive Activities and Stage Performances
Visitors seeking lighter programming can participate in a “Meong-BTI” assessment designed to explore their dogs’ personalities, create custom pet toys and photo key rings, or join games that test canine patience. A stamp rally spread across seven distinct zones will provide souvenirs to the first 1,000 participants who complete the route.
The main stage hosts a lineup of entertainment, including a dog-dancing performance, a fashion show pairing pets with their owners, and live concerts by singers Haha and Kim Na-young.
Outdoor Film Screening and Art Exhibitions
The evening schedule includes an outdoor screening of the film “My Heart Puppy” from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The screening is preceded by a prerecorded interview featuring actor Yoo Yeon-seok discussing the adoption of his rescue dog, Rita.
Non-pet owners and visitors can also explore an exhibition featuring works by six emerging artists alongside a collaborative art wall. Free shuttle services will operate between the venue, the World Cup No. 2 Public Parking Lot, and the Peace Park Parking Lot to manage visitor transit.
