South Korea has recently passed a law aiming to phase out the consumption of dog meat by 2027, effectively ending the centuries-old practice of eating dogs.
The legislation prohibits raising or slaughtering dogs for consumption, as well as distributing or selling dog meat, carrying potential jail sentences for offenders.
The law, set to be enforced in three years, grants time for dog meat farmers and restaurant owners to transition to alternative livelihoods.
They are required to submit plans to local authorities for phasing out their businesses, with promised government support that includes compensation, yet to be fully outlined.
Notably, the consumption of dog meat itself will not be illegal, although the industry will cease to exist as the ban takes effect.
In 2023, South Korea had approximately 1,600 dog meat restaurants and 1,150 dog farms, but the demand has significantly declined, especially among the younger generation.
President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee, known for their love of animals, own six dogs and have advocated for an end to the practice of consuming dog meat.
Despite previous failed attempts by past governments to ban the practice, this recent move marks a significant step towards a more dog-friendly future.
Animal rights groups, long advocating for this ban, praised the decision. Jung Ah Chae, the executive director of the Humane Society in Korea, expressed surprise and joy, stating, “While my heart breaks for all the millions of dogs for whom this change has come too late, I am overjoyed that South Korea can now close this miserable chapter in our history and embrace a dog-friendly future.”
However, dog meat farmers opposed the ban, arguing that the declining popularity, particularly among younger demographics, should naturally lead to the industry’s demise over time.
Many farmers and restaurateurs, mostly elderly, highlighted the challenge of switching livelihoods late in life due to the ban, expressing despair over losing their source of income.
Joo Yeong-bong, a dog farmer, lamented the situation, stating, “In 10 years, the industry would have disappeared. We’re in our 60s and 70s, and now we have no choice but to lose our livelihoods,” viewing the ban as an infringement on people’s freedom to consume what they prefer.
Source-BBC
