South Korean actor Lee Byung-hun has sparked a debate online following his remarks about his past experience with pets. During an episode of the YouTube channel ‘DdeunDdeun,’ he revealed that he once cared for up to 27 dogs while living with his mother before his marriage. This disclosure surprised fellow guests Yoo Jae-suk and Jisuk Jin, who expressed disbelief at the high number of pets.
Lee recounted the challenges of managing such a large number of dogs, stating, “Feeding them was a tremendous task, but cleaning up after them was even more difficult.” He mentioned that he eventually decided to find new homes for some of the dogs, noting that he currently has about four left. His comments, however, have drawn a mixed response from the public.
While some viewers sympathized with Lee’s situation, many others took to online communities to express concern over what they perceived as irresponsible pet ownership. Comments included accusations of “animal hoarding” and questioning the welfare of the dogs that were given away. Critics pointed out that even if some dogs were adopted, the initial decision to keep such a large number raised ethical concerns regarding proper care and responsibility.
The backlash highlights a growing sensitivity in society towards animal rights and responsible pet ownership. Many commenters expressed distress over the implications of Lee’s statements, suggesting that his experience reflects a broader issue of neglect and lack of accountability among pet owners.
Why it matters: This incident underscores the importance of responsible pet ownership and the ethical considerations surrounding animal care, reflecting societal values and expectations regarding the treatment of animals in South Korea.