Dove Project (stylized as DoVE Project, Dogs of Violence Exposed) is a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the dog meat trade in South Korea. Founded in August 2016 by Tami Cho Zussman and Claudia, the organization operates through rescue efforts, advocacy, and education, collaborating with South Korean animal welfare groups and activists.

Mission and Work

DoVE Project focuses on rescuing dogs from illegal farms, slaughterhouses, markets, and puppy mills, while providing veterinary care and rehoming in the U.S. The organization emphasizes cultural sensitivity in its approach, working directly with South Korean stakeholders to address the socio-economic and legal complexities of the industry. Key initiatives include:

• Rescue operations: Partnering with local activists to remove dogs from abusive environments and secure their adoption[2].
• Advocacy: Engaging policymakers and communities to promote legislative and cultural change ahead of South Korea’s 2026 deadline for phasing out legally sanctioned dog meat farming[1][2].
• Education: Raising awareness about the trade’s ethical and public health implications through outreach programs in the U.S. and South Korea[1].

Organizational Structure

Led by co-founders Tami Cho Zussman, a Korean-American advocate, and Claudia, the organization prioritizes sustainable solutions for farmers transitioning out of the trade. DoVE Project operates as a cross-border network, relying on partnerships with South Korean rescue groups and U.S.-based shelters[2].

Note: Dove Project (EIN: 270689462) is distinct from similarly named entities, such as The Vashon DOVE Project, which addresses domestic violence[5]. All operational details pertain solely to the dog meat trade-focused organization.

[1] https://dove-project.org [2] https://www.dove-project.org/about-us [3] https://www.instagram.com/dove_project/ [4] https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/813618975 [5] https://www.vashondoveproject.org