Hedgehogs as Pets in South Korea: Reality and Myths

Have you ever wondered if people in South Korea really keep hedgehogs as pets, as portrayed in some Korean dramas? While hedgehogs have been gaining popularity as pets in Western countries, the reality in South Korea might surprise you. Let's explore the truth behind the fad and the current trends in pet ownership in South Korea.

The Dominance of Cats and Dogs

South Korea is known for its love of cats and dogs, with many households owning these popular pets. However, other small animals like hamsters and goldfish are also common. I have seen people with hedgehogs in animal-related programs, but I have never met anyone personally who keeps a hedgehog as a pet. However, my research uncovered a trend that started in 2003, where hedgehogs have become a more common sight online and in pet stores.

Interesting Facts About Hedgehogs in South Korea

Raising hedgehogs as pets in South Korea has indeed been a trend since 2003, and now several online shopping stores sell little houses/art boxes and food specifically for these adorable pets. The types most commonly adopted by South Koreans are not native to Korea but are a hybrid of the four-toed hedgehog from Africa and the Algerian hedgehog, known for their small and endearing size.

My Experience in South Korea

Over the past six years, I have rarely, if ever, encountered a hedgehog as a pet. Those I have seen were well-to-do individuals who owned small dogs. It is worth noting that many Korean dramas, especially those that aim for high ratings, often take artistic liberties to make their shows more captivating. Therefore, the portrayal of owning hedgehogs in these dramas might not always reflect reality.

Protected Species and Legalities

In South Korea, there are laws protecting certain animals and insects, which cannot be kept as pets by individuals. If you come across these protected species, you must report them to the government. The country invests a great deal of money to restore these threatened species to their natural habitats. Currently, there are no laws that specifically prohibit keeping hedgehogs as pets, but some states in other countries do.

Controversy Surrounding Hedgehogs as Pets

The debate over the legitimacy of owning hedgehogs as pets is ongoing. Advocates argue that hedgehogs make good pets for people with allergies, as they have a low allergen count, and can be socialized from a young age. However, opponents argue that this practice poses ethical and moral issues because hedgehogs are naturally nocturnal and could be forced to interact with their owners when they are sleeping.

For instance, New York City's health code classifies hedgehogs as wild animals and unsuitable for domestic life. Similar classifications can be found in states like California and Maine. Additionally, socializing hedgehogs at an early age is crucial for making them good pets. If not socialized, hedgehogs might not be comfortable being held by humans.

In conclusion, while the trend of keeping hedgehogs as pets has grown in South Korea, it is not as widespread as in other parts of the world. The legal and ethical considerations around keeping hedgehogs as pets underscore the need for responsible ownership and awareness of the animal's natural behavior.

References

ABC News: Hedgehogs: Cute, Quiet, and Surprisingly Controversial New York Post: Meet Gizmo, the 3.5-year-old Hedgehog Used in Ads