South Korea Enforces Groundbreaking Dog Meat Ban by 2027

In a groundbreaking move, South Korea has enacted a “Dog Meat Ban,” prohibiting the slaughter and sale of dogs for meat, signaling a significant departure from the centuries-old tradition of consuming dog meat.

Scheduled to be enforced by 2027, the legislation does not criminalize the act of consuming dog meat but specifically targets the dog meat trade.

The traditional dish of dog meat stew, known as “boshintang,” once considered a delicacy among older South Koreans, has experienced a decline in popularity, particularly among the younger generation. According to a Gallup poll, only 8% of respondents tried dog meat in the past 12 months, a sharp decrease from the 27% reported in 2015.

Under the new law, those found guilty of butchering dogs could face up to three years in prison, while individuals involved in raising dogs for meat or selling dog meat could be sentenced to a maximum of two years. Farmers and restaurant owners are granted a three-year grace period to transition to alternative forms of employment.

The shift in societal attitudes toward dog meat ban, with an increasing number of people regarding dogs as family members, has led to growing support for animal rights. Acknowledging the declining popularity of dog meat, the government aims to assist affected farmers, butchers, and restaurant owners during the transition.

Despite expressions of disappointment from some older individuals, such as 86-year-old Kim Seon-ho, who claims the tradition dates back to the Middle Ages, a generational divide is evident. President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee, known for their love of animals, have advocated for ending the practice.

Animal rights groups, including the Humane Society in Korea, have praised the ban as a significant change following decades of unsuccessful attempts to address the issue. According to Jung Ah Chae, the executive director of the Humane Society in Korea, the ban reflects South Korea’s commitment to a more dog-friendly future.

However, some dog meat farmers argue against the ban, suggesting that the declining popularity among the younger population should be allowed to phase out the practice naturally.