The Rise of Pet Rocks: A New Trend Among South Korea's MZ Generation

As times change, cultures diversify. Dogs and cats have become integral parts of our families. Beyond the era of pets, we are now in the era of pet culture. A new trend has recently emerged among South Korea's MZ generation: 'pet rocks.' This term, 'Petdol,' literally translates to raising a stone as one would a pet. The culture of treating rocks like pets is gaining popularity.

In 2021, the SBS entertainment program "My Ugly Little Dog" went viral when actress Lee Jong-hee was shown caring for a pet rock. She dressed it in a straw hat and provided a straw nest, asking actor Jung Seok-yong, "Doesn't your pet look beautiful?" Initially puzzling to viewers, this trend quickly gained traction with many people showcasing their pet rocks on social media.

These pet owners name their rocks, dress them, provide them with beds and chairs, and even take them for walks. They create homes for these rocks, assigning them personalities akin to living creatures.

The Wall Street Journal's Insight

On March 17, the Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on this unique trend, highlighting its popularity in South Korea. The article, titled "Overworked South Koreans are Relaxing with Pet Rocks," noted that pet rocks, popularized in the United States in the 1970s, have made a comeback in South Korea. Overworked individuals find solace in these inanimate companions, treating them as pets.

A 30-year-old pharmaceutical researcher named Lee shared that despite the rocks being inanimate, they provide a sense of relaxation similar to that experienced when interacting with a pet dog. Similarly, a housewife named Choi mentioned the comfort she derives from her pet rock.

The Emotional Stability Provided by Pet Rocks

Unlike pets and plants, pet rocks do not move or perform biological activities. However, they offer a sense of emotional security. Testimonials from pet rock owners illustrate this emotional connection. Owners describe their pet rocks as cute, healing, and comforting. They treat them as living creatures, sharing their worries and daily activities with them.

The Booming Market for Pet Rocks

The demand for pet rocks has led to a thriving market. Online shopping malls offer a variety of pet rocks, priced between 5,000 and 20,000 won. Companies like Techbridge sell not only the rocks but also pet registration certificates, grooming tools, and various accessories such as clothes, necklaces, and sunglasses.

Techbridge CEO Park Jung-yong explained the popularity of pet rocks, especially among young women and children. The market, although stable, holds potential for significant growth depending on future plans and concepts.

The Cultural Significance of Pet Rocks

The concept of pet rocks isn't new. It was first introduced as a joke by American author Gary Dahl in 1975. However, the modern resurgence of this trend in Korea reflects a deeper cultural and emotional need. Professor Kim Jin-guk from Korea University explained that East Asian societies have long valued ornamental stones, symbolizing stability and eternity.

To many, a pet rock may appear as just another stone. But for those who find comfort and peace in their pet rock, it is much more – a companion that provides emotional stability in a busy, modern society.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What are pet rocks? A: Pet rocks are stones treated as pets. Owners name them, dress them, and create living spaces for them.

Q2: Why are pet rocks popular in South Korea? A: Overworked South Koreans find emotional stability and companionship in pet rocks, similar to how people interact with pets.

Q3: How do people take care of pet rocks? A: Owners provide pet rocks with names, homes, and accessories. They dress them and sometimes even take them for walks.

Q4: Are pet rocks a new concept? A: No, the concept originated in the United States in the 1970s. It has recently gained popularity in South Korea.

Q5: What cultural significance do pet rocks have? A: In East Asian cultures, ornamental stones symbolize stability and eternity, providing a sense of security to their owners.

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