Environmental organizations in South Korea celebrated the new law, unanimously approved in parliament, that will ban the consumption of dog meat starting in 2027. However, the regulation faces resistance from those involved in the industry.
This week, the South Korean parliament passed the law banning the sale of dog meat for human consumption, with a unanimous vote of 208 in favor. This measure, which will come into effect in 2027, includes sentences of two to three years in prison, as well as fines of up to 30 million won (approximately 23,000 dollars) for those involved in breeding, slaughtering, or selling these animals. However, consumers will not be penalized.
The law aims to improve the country’s international perception and address demands from animal rights groups. According to the legal document, the regulation seeks to promote “respect for life and harmonious coexistence between humans and animals.”
Although the law was unanimously approved in parliament, there is still work to be done on the transition details, which will be defined jointly by officials, breeders, experts, and activists.
dog meat[/caption>
Resistance and Reactions
Following the law’s approval, actors from the dog meat industry rejected the measure, labeling it as a violation of their professional freedom. Won Hak, a breeder and leader of an industry association, stated that the law is an act of “state violence” and anticipated that they will challenge its constitutionality. Additionally, the lack of clear measures to assist affected workers has sparked criticism and may trigger ongoing conflicts.
On the other hand, organizations like Humane Society International (HSI) celebrated the decision. In this regard, JungAh Chae, executive director of the Korean branch, described the measure as a “historic victory for animals” and highlighted the collective effort of the animal protection movement.
A Law with Political and Social Support
President Yoon Suk Yeol, known for adopting stray dogs and cats, supports the legislation, as does the First Lady, Kim Keon Hee, who faced backlash during breeder protests for her pro-ban stance.
In fact, recent surveys show that, although the majority of South Koreans do not regularly consume dog meat, a third of the population opposes the ban, even without being consumers. However, another poll revealed that 90% of citizens have no intention of consuming dog meat in the future.
Dirty cages and crowded dogs
Decline of the Industry
Although there are no exact figures on the industry’s size, the government estimates that around 1,100 farms produce hundreds of thousands of dogs annually. Traditionally considered a summer delicacy for its alleged energy benefits, dog meat consumption has drastically decreased in recent years, paralleling the rise of dog adoption as pets.
For many young South Koreans, there is a taboo around consuming this meat. Kim Myung-ae, a Seoul resident, expressed: “Dogs are different from cows, chickens, and pigs. Why keep eating them when they are now more pets than food?” In contrast, another citizen, Jeong Yoon Hee, argued that consuming dog meat is a matter of personal and cultural choice.
The ban reflects a significant change in the perception of animals in South Korea and could set a precedent in the region.
Which countries are known for consuming dog meat?
However, South Korea is not the only country known for consuming dog meat, as there are other Asian countries that practice it. Regarding this type of consumption, HSI estimates that in Vietnam, around five million dogs are captured and killed annually to meet the demand for meat. In fact, hunters use different methods to capture their dogs such as baits, electric guns, and iron tongs.
A similar situation occurs in India, although there the consumption of dog meat is not widespread across the country. Meat consumption in this country is exclusive to some tribal areas and ethnic minorities in the northwestern states like Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland.
In Indonesia, on the other hand, dog meat consumption is only legal in places where non-Muslim tribes or ethnic groups reside, such as Sulawesi or the Moluccas.
Have you visited our YouTube channel yet? Subscribe!
