In the heart of Korat, Thailand, a stray dog named “Moo Daeng,” which brings the meaning “red pork,” has captured the hearts of locals and netizens alike with his devotion to his late owner. 
Known affectionately as the “Hachiko of Korat,” Moo Daeng’s story mirrors that of the legendary Japanese Akita, who famously waited for his deceased owner for nearly a decade.
According to the Facebook post by Korat: A City You Can Build, Moo Daeng’s journey of loyalty began with his owner, a homeless man who frequented the Grandma Mo Market.
For four years, the duo shared an inseparable bond, often seen resting outside a 7-Eleven convenience store—their makeshift home amidst the bustling market.
According to Nation Thailand, Moo Daeng’s owner, a man described as having a mental disorder and often dressed like a hermit, would walk around the neighborhood begging for food or money enough for both of them to survive.
Despite their struggles, Moo Daeng needed nothing more than the companionship of his caregiver.
The Tragedy: The Owner Passed Away
However, tragedy struck in November 2024 when Moo Daeng’s owner fell gravely ill and passed away.
Since then, Moo Daeng has continued to wait at the same spot outside the 7-Eleven, holding on to the memory of the man he once called family.
His presence has earned him the title “Hachikō of Korat” within the local community.
Photographs shared on January 13, 2025, by Mari-Mo Photography in the Facebook group “Korat: A City You Can Build” brought Moo Daeng’s story to the attention of the world.
A yellow sign placed by the 7-Eleven owner alongside Moo Daeng reads: “Thank you all customers for your kindness, but Moo Daeng cannot eat liver or drink milk. Please help it live long.”
The sign expresses gratitude for the care given to Moo Daeng while also providing important guidelines on what should and shouldn’t be fed to him.
Support from a Caring Community
While Moo Daeng’s story is one of loss, it is also a testament to human kindness. The staff at the 7-Eleven, along with market vendors, have taken it upon themselves to care for Moo Daeng.
A TikTok video posted by @/Milkganeha, shows the 7-Eleven employee draping a red blanket over Moo Daeng along with other plush toys to keep him company.
The video has garnered over 2.8 million views, with viewers praising those who have stepped up to care for the loyal dog.
A Symbol of Love and Loyalty
Moo Daeng’s story has touched countless hearts as it shows the depth of love and loyalty that animals are capable of.
Visitors at Grandma Mo Market often stop to offer him snacks, and locals speak fondly of the gentle dog who has become a cherished presence in their neighborhood.
Thai Princess Adopts Moo Daeng
In a heartwarming update, Princess Siribha Chudabhorn of Thailand has adopted Moo Daeng, ensuring a brighter future for the loyal dog who waited months for his late owner.
In a Facebook post on January 23, the princess shared that Moo Daeng’s story moved her after watching a video about his unwavering loyalty.
She initially provided financial support for his medical care. However, she learned that Moo Daeng’s current caregiver, a woman named Khun Iw, could no longer look after him due to her own health challenges.
Taking Moo Daeng under her wing, the princess shared that she deeply understands the emotional struggles the dog has faced, likening his condition to major depressive syndrome.
“I promise with my life that I will love and care for Moo Daeng as if he were my own child — just as I do with all my pets, both emotionally and physically,” she wrote.
She emphasized the importance of addressing Moo Daeng’s emotional and physical health, vowing to provide him with the nurturing environment he needs to heal.
A New Chapter for Moo Daeng
As part of his care, the princess plans to take Moo Daeng to temples for blessings and ensure he feels loved every step of the way.
Moo Daeng’s journey has touched the hearts of people around the world. Thanks to the princess’s intervention, the once-lonely dog now has a secure and loving home.
With this adoption, Moo Daeng’s story of devotion takes on a new, hopeful chapter of compassion and the enduring bond between humans and animals.
Photos courtesy of Mari-Mo Photography and Siribha Official Fund on Facebook.
Watch the videos here:
@milkganeha น้อนนน 🐶 #สัตว์โลกน่ารัก #น้องหมา #หมาน่ารัก
@milkganeha
@milkganeha เจ้าหมูแดง🩷 #น้องหมา #น้องหมาน่ารัก #สัตว์โลกน่ารัก
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