South Korea Makes it Illegal to Trade Dog Meat, Putting an end to the Controversial Practice as consumers Eating Habits Change.
South Korea passed a law prohibiting the killing and selling of dogs for meat. This new legislation will become law by 2027 to put an end to the practice of eating dog meat. Although the eating of dog meat will not be illegalized, the attention is on how to eradicate this trade.
The traditional dog meat stew “boshintang”, was a delicacy for some older South Koreans, but the popularity has dwindled especially among younger generations. A recent poll revealed that only 8% of people reported having eaten dog meat in the past year, down from 27%. Only 15% of the respondents agree to consume dog meat.
Under the new law, those who would murder dogs could be sentenced to up to three years in prison, while people who would rear or sell dogs for meat may face a maximum of two years in jail. Farmers and restaurant owners will be given three years to find other jobs before the law comes into force.
The government is going to assist local dog meat farmers and butchers as well as certain owners of restaurants impacted by the prohibition, though details about how this compensation will be made are still undecided.South Korea had around 1,600 dog meat restaurants and 1,150 dog farms in 2023, all of which must submit plans to phase out their businesses.
President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee, who are known for their affection for animals, have called for an end to eating dogs. Critics argue that the decline in popularity among young people suggests that the practice should naturally phase out over time. The government’s decision aims to accelerate the end of the dog meat trade in South Korea.
