South Korea’s parliament has voted to ban the production and sale of dog meat, marking a significant victory for animal welfare campaigners. The national assembly passed the legislation, which prohibits the breeding, butchery, distribution, and sale of dogs for meat.
While the law doesn’t criminalise consumption, it effectively puts an end to the practice, which has faced opposition for years.
The ban received overwhelming support in the national assembly, with 208 votes in favour and two abstentions, and will be enforced in 2027 following a three-year grace period. Violators could face up to three years in prison or a maximum fine of 30 million South Korean Won (£17,900). The legislation includes compensation packages to assist businesses transitioning out of the dog meat industry.
Once considered a way to combat fatigue during hot summers, the consumption of dog meat has significantly declined, especially among younger South Koreans who view dogs as family pets. A recent survey indicated that over 94% of respondents had not eaten dog meat in the past year, and 93% stated they wouldn’t consume it in the future.
Despite the decline in consumption, around 1,150 farms still breed dogs for meat, and 1,600 restaurants sell dog meat dishes in South Korea, according to the Agriculture Ministry. Campaigners have long criticised the industry for its cruelty, with dogs subjected to electrocution or hanging during slaughter.
The president of South Korea, Yoon Suk-yeol, who is known for his love of animals and has adopted several dogs and cats, has supported the movement to make selling dog meat illegal.