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South Korea has taken a landmark step by officially prohibiting the consumption of dog meat. As of February 2027, the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for food will be completely banned nationwide. This decision signals the end of a long-standing culinary tradition that has faced increasing criticism both domestically and internationally.

An Era Ends: Humanity Over Tradition

South Korean authorities have enacted legislation that puts a definitive end to the decades-old practice of consuming dog meat. While the majority of South Koreans no longer partake in this tradition, its continuation has been a point of contention, impacting the country's global image. The ban is seen as an inevitable move towards greater animal welfare.

International Pressure and Shifting Public Opinion

Discussions surrounding a ban on dog meat consumption have been ongoing at the international level since 2012. Petitions, parliamentary debates, and public appeals to the government have played a crucial role in reshaping public opinion. In 2018, animal rights advocates presented a petition with one million signatures to the then-President, urging a phased closure of dog farms.

New Legislation and a Transition Period

The new law prohibits the breeding of dogs for slaughter, as well as the processing and distribution of their meat. Support, including subsidies, will be offered to industry workers and businesses to help them transition to other sectors. South Korea has already made significant progress in closing down dog farms, with over 82% having ceased operations. Violators of the law from 2027 onwards could face up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won (approximately $22,000 USD).

Historical Context and Key Supporters

Previous attempts to ban the dog meat trade were met with resistance from producers. However, the new law includes provisions for compensation to breeders. The movement towards this ban has been largely driven by younger generations embracing Western values, pet owners, and animal rights activists. First Lady Kim Keon Hee has been a prominent supporter of the ban, actively advocating for its passage.

Industry Scale and Transformation

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, in 2024, South Korea had approximately 1,150 dog farms raising over half a million dogs. The industry also comprised 34 slaughterhouses, 219 distribution companies, and around 1,600 restaurants. This is a significant decrease from previous years, when the number of such restaurants reportedly reached 20,000. The annual turnover of the industry was estimated at $200 million, with consumption reaching up to 100,000 tons of meat per year.

Global Trends and Animal Sentience

While South Korea moves away from this practice, the consumption of dog meat persists in several countries, including North Korea, Vietnam, China, and certain regions of Russia. However, globalization, the rise of animal welfare movements, and evolving societal views are contributing to a global decline in such practices. In Europe, dogs are widely considered companions, and in Kazakhstan, they are recognized as one of the 'seven treasures' of traditional culture.

This development was reported by Infohub.kz.