South Korea has approved a new law set to halt the killing and trade of dogs for their meat by 2027, effectively putting an end to a centuries-old tradition of consuming dog meat.
This legislation aims to outlaw raising and slaughtering dogs for consumption, along with the distribution and sale of dog meat, threatening potential jail terms for offenders. But the act of consuming dog meat itself will remain legal.
Under this law, those caught butchering dogs may face up to three years in prison, while those involved in raising or selling dog meat could be sentenced to a maximum of two years. However, the law will not criminalize the consumption of dog meat.
The law’s enforcement, set to take effect in three years, gives dog farmers and restaurant owners time to transition to alternative livelihoods. They’re required to present plans to phase out their businesses to local authorities.
While the government pledges support for those affected by this ban, including compensation details, remain yet to be fully worked out. In 2023, South Korea reported approximately 1,600 dog meat restaurants and 1,150 dog farms.
Despite being considered a delicacy by some older South Koreans, particularly in dishes like “boshintang” (dog meat stew), the consumption of dog meat has notably declined, especially among the younger generation. A Gallup poll showed a significant drop in consumption, from 27% in 2015 to only 8% in the past year, with less than a fifth of respondents supporting its consumption.
Past administrations have pledged to ban dog meat dating back to the 1980s, but little progress was made. Current President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee, both animal lovers owning six dogs, have openly called for ending the practice of eating dogs.
Animal rights organizations, advocating for this ban for years, welcomed Tuesday’s decision, expressing surprise and joy over this long-awaited change in South Korea’s history. Jung Ah Chae, the executive director of the Humane Society in Korea, hailed the move, acknowledging the late impact on countless dogs while celebrating the country’s turn toward a dog-friendly future.
