South Korea Plans to Ban Eating Dog Meat

South Korea’s parliament passed a bill that would effectively ban the eating of dog meat. The bill is expected to be signed into law by President Yoon Suk-yeol and will take effect in 2027. Moreover, the new law is expected to help end the meat trade in South Korea and protect these animals from harm.

South Korea is working towards a ban on consuming dog meat to address concerns about animal rights and end the long-standing practice. It was said by a leading member of the ruling party on Friday.

The tradition of eating doggy meat in Korea has faced criticism globally for its perceived cruelty. However, the opposition has been growing domestically, particularly among the younger generation.

Yu Eui-dong is a policy chief of the ruling People Power Party. He stated during a meeting with government officials and animal rights activists. “It is time to resolve social conflicts and disputes related to dog meat consumption through the introduction of a special law to bring it to an end.”

The government, along with the ruling party, plans to present a bill this year to enforce the ban, with bipartisan support expected for smooth passage through parliament.

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Agriculture Minister Chung Hwang-keun expressed the government’s commitment to swiftly implementing the ban and offering maximum support to those in the gruesome meat industry to transition away from their businesses.

First Lady Kim Keon Hee, along with President Yoon Suk Yeol, has been vocal about opposing dog meat consumption and has adopted stray dogs.

Previous attempts to pass anti-dog meat bills faced opposition from industry participants, concerned about their livelihoods. The proposed ban includes a three-year grace period and financial assistance for businesses to shift away from the trade.

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While eating puppy meat has been a traditional practice in South Korea. It has become less common, especially among the younger population. The proposed ban has been welcomed by animal rights groups, with Humane Society International stating. “A dream come true for all of us who have campaigned so hard to end this cruelty.”

According to government data, there are approximately 1,150 breeding farms, 34 slaughterhouses, and 219 distribution companies. There are also around 1,600 restaurants serving dog meat in South Korea. A Gallup Korea poll from last year revealed that 64% of respondents opposed dog meat consumption. With only 8% reporting having consumed dog meat in the past year, down from 27% in 2015.