”Poor South Korea, their pet dog is their partner” - US media

As South Korea continues to experience a low birth rate and the number of single-person households is rapidly increasing, U.S. media has noticed that the number of people who own pet dogs is on the rise.
The New York Times (NYT) reported on the 12th (local time) that "One of the world's loneliest countries,
In an article titled "Finding a Partner Among Dogs," the article said, "In South Korea, where the birth rate is the lowest in the world and most of the population lives alone, pet dogs have become beloved family members."
The NYT particularly noted that South Korea, which once became a problem in the international community due to its tradition of "dog meat," has transformed into a country that takes pride in its "love for pet dogs."
The NYT cited "low birth rates" and "increase in single-person households" as reasons for this. It also said, "During the COVID-19 pandemic, people have become more active indoors, which has led to an increase in pets."
The NYT explained, "One in four households in South Korea now owns a pet, a big increase from 2010," and "Love is a big factor."
"The cityscape is also changing as more and more families are raising their dogs like children," he said. "As a result, veterinary clinics and pet supply stores are everywhere.
"They have become such a common sight that maternity hospitals have disappeared altogether," the report added.