In a groundbreaking move for animal welfare, South Korea’s national assembly has voted overwhelmingly to prohibit the production and sale of dog meat. This momentous decision comes after persistent pressure both domestically and internationally, marking a significant victory for campaigners advocating for the humane treatment of animals.
The legislation, which received 208 votes in support with two abstentions, comprehensively bans the breeding, butchery, distribution, and sale of dogs for their meat. While consumption itself is not criminalized, the measures effectively bring an end to the practice, deeply rooted in tradition, that some argue dates back centuries.
The ban, set to be enforced in 2027 after a three-year grace period, imposes severe penalties on violators, including up to three years in prison or a maximum fine of £17,900. Remarkably, the law also includes compensation packages to assist businesses in transitioning away from the dog meat industry.
Once viewed as a method to combat fatigue during hot summers, the consumption of dog meat has significantly declined in recent decades, especially among younger South Koreans who now consider dogs as family pets. According to a recent survey by the Seoul-based thinktank Animal Welfare Awareness, Research, and Education, over 94% of respondents reported not eating dog meat in the past year, with 93% expressing their unwillingness to do so in the future.
The historic decision reflects a broader societal shift away from endorsing the consumption of dog meat. JungAh Chae, the executive director of Humane Society International/Korea, describes it as “history in the making,” emphasizing the transformative power of citizens who reject dog consumption and desire an end to the suffering inflicted on these animals.
President Yoon Suk-yeol, an advocate for animal rights and a pet owner himself, has played a pivotal role in advancing the movement against the dog meat industry. The ban aligns with the growing sentiment in South Korea favoring a dog-friendly future.
Campaigners and animal rights activists celebrate the decision, seeing it as a monumental step towards ending the cruel practices associated with the dog meat industry. With the ban set to take effect in a few years, South Korea moves towards a more compassionate and ethical approach to the treatment of animals.