South Korea, one of the world’s loneliest countries, finds companionship in dogs

Dogs have become pampered family members in South Korea, which has the world's lowest birth rate and where much of the population lives alone. - PHOTO: NYTIMES

SEOUL: The deceased lay wrapped in a cotton blanket, surrounded by white roses and hydrangea, angelic figurines and lit candles and incense. A wall-mounted screen displayed photographs of him.

His 71-year-old companion, Madam Kim Seon-ae, convulsed with tears as she bid farewell, caressing his head and face. Next door, young uniformed morticians prepared for his cremation.