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¡ã The Jeju black pig could soon be a Korean national monument. Photo courtesy Jeju Special Self-Governing Province |
There are increasing calls to have Jeju’s black pig saved due to dwindling numbers. Jeju Special Self-Governing Province Institute for Livestock has applied to the Cultural Heritage Administration to have the pig designated as a cultural heritage natural monument.
The move to have the pig designated as a natural monument has been promoted since 2012 and if designated as expected, the pig will join the Jeju horse (No.347), Jeju black cows (No.546) on the list.
Through its unique history, Jeju black pork has high cultural value and is regarded as a unique traditional livestock. It has thick and rough black hair with a rather slim mouth and nose. Despite its small body it is highly disease resistant and hardy.
A feasibility study will be conducted by the Cultural Heritage Commission this month with results expected in November, with designation possible by early December.
The Livestock Industry Promotion Agency currently raises 270 Jeju black pigs and the dwindling numbers are due to the importing of foreign breeds from the 1960s. In recognition of their plight the Livestock Industry Promotion Agency has collected genetic samples of Jeju pigs since the mid-1980s.
The Livestock Industry Promotion Agency has also proposed that the government establish an institute to help preserve natural monuments on Jeju to maintain genetic diversity and ensure they remain resistant against disease. |