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Natural Monument

경산의 삽살개 ( 慶山의 삽살개 )

Heritage Search Detail
Classification Natural Monument
Name of Cultural Properties

Quantity 50-150 entities
Designated Date 1992.03.10
Age
Address San 21-1, Baksa-ri, Wachon-myeon, Gyeongsan, Gyeongsangbuk-do

Sapsaree is a dog found in the southeast part of Korean Peninsula. The male grows up to 51cm long, whereas the female, 49cm long. Its body is covered with long hair that the hair also covers the eyes. The ears hang down, and the muzzle is not as sharp-pointed as that of the Jindo dog. The tail of the dog is raised, and it has a big head like a lion. The dog has a bold and brave nature, and it is loyal to its owner. Sapsaree means dogs that expel evil and misfortune. Because Sapsalgae is a purely Korean name, it has often appeared in lyrics of songs and stories told by the common people. During the Silla Dynasty, the nobles raised the dog. However, since the fall of Unified Silla Dynasty, common people have begun breeding the dog. During the Japanese occupation, Sapsaree became the source of leather and the number of the dog has decreased remarkably since 1940. Consequently, it was in danger of becoming extinct. At the end of 1960s, professors of Kyungpook National University started collecting and preserving Sapsaree. Recently, the number of Sapsaree has reached approximately 500. There are plans of making Sapsaree as a well-known dog breed around the world. Since the Sapsalgae in Gyeongsan is native to Korea, the dog has been preserved by the Association for Sapsaree Conservation of Korea. The Sapsalgae is also designated and protected as a Natural Monument.