The Pungsan, sometimes known as the Poongsan dog, is a breed native to Korea. In fact, it is one of only three breeds known to be native to that area. These dogs are hardly known outside of their home country, and even among the three native breeds, the Pungsan is the rarest of them. Developed in the mountain areas of North Korea sometime during the 16th century, the Pungsan dog is thought to have either descended from the Siberian Laika or a mix of Mastiff and Herding breeds. However, the breeds true lineage remains up for speculation, as there are no records for the breed. Along with being loved companions and guard dogs, the Pungsan would have been used as a hunting dog for large game, such as tigers and boars. In 2000, a pair of Pungsan dogs was given to the President of South Korea as a gift from the President of North Korea. The two Pungsan dogs, a male and a female, have produced a line in South Korea that is considered highly valuable to day. Although the Pungsan dog has a fan base in Korea, their rarity and less than widespread notoriety, as well as the absence of breed records has prevented them from being recognized by any major kennel club.