South Korea Bans Production of Dog Meat
In a historic move, South Korea's parliament has voted to ban the centuries-old dog meat industry.
The legislation, set to be enforced by 2027, criminalises the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs and dog meat for human consumption. This landmark decision comes after years of debate and failed attempts by previous governments to address the controversial practice.
The bill imposes penalties of up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million KRW (£18,000) for those involved in the industry. Immediate prohibitions include setting up new dog farms, slaughterhouses, and processing facilities. Importantly, the ban does not penalise individuals for consuming dog meat, instead focusing on penalising those in the industry.
The ban aims to phase out approximately 1,600 dog meat restaurants and 1,150 dog farms, giving farmers and restaurant owners a three-year grace period to transition to alternative livelihoods. Support from local authorities is promised, though the details of compensation remain unclear.
Campaigners and animal rights groups celebrated the outcome, while dog farmers expressed dismay, citing an infringement on their freedom to choose their occupation.
President Yoon Suk Yeol, known for his love of animals, played a pivotal role in garnering support for the ban, reflecting changing sentiments in a nation where dog meat was once considered a traditional food.
The declining popularity of dog meat, particularly among the younger generation, played a crucial role in pushing for this change. A Gallup poll revealed that only 8% of respondents had tried dog meat in the past year, a significant drop from 27% in 2015.
As South Korea embraces a more dog-friendly future, the ban marks the end of an era and a decisive step towards aligning with evolving societal values.
