[KoreaUrbanLegend] pigeon's skewer

 

In the 1990s, as the pigeon population in Seoul surged, rumors began to spread about "using pigeons as food." People started to believe the rumors of using the pigeons found on the streets, and urban legends emerged, claiming that "pigeon meat is sold on skewers disguised as chicken." This coincided with the popularity of imported boneless chicken, amplifying the suspicions.

Over time, rumors circulated that "the number of pigeons in the Han River has decreased" or "Chinese pigeon meat is being supplied." In China, pigeons are indeed sold on skewers, but they are priced higher than chicken. A 2007 investigation by "Bunman Zero" concluded that it was impossible for pigeons to be cheaper than chicken.

It is clear that purchasing imported chicken is far more economical than processing and using pigeons. The claim that "catching street pigeons is free" is logically flawed, as the labor costs and time involved in catching them cannot be overlooked. Therefore, it is concluded that buying imported chicken is preferable to utilizing pigeons.

These urban legends can be seen as a result of consumer skepticism and unethical practices by sellers, similar to cases such as the poisonous flower crab in 2000, garbage dumplings in 2004, and the melamine scandal in 2008. Additionally, it should not be forgotten that pigeon meat tastes different from chicken.

There are similar rumors suggesting that sparrow skewers are made from pigeons, but in reality, they are made from male chicks or quails. Rumors related to the American bullfrog have also arisen in a similar context.

In conclusion, these urban legends stem from a lack of trust between consumers and sellers.