By South Korea recently enacted a groundbreaking law to eradicate the consumption and trade of dog meat by 2027, putting an end to a centuries-old tradition.
The legislation prohibits the raising and slaughtering of dogs for food, along with the distribution and sale of dog meat. Offenders may face imprisonment, with up to three years for those involved in butchering dogs and a maximum of two years for those raising or selling dog meat. Importantly, the act of consuming dog meat itself remains legal.
The new law is set to take effect in three years, allowing farmers and restaurant owners time to transition to alternative sources of livelihood. They are required to present phased-out business plans to local authorities during this period.
In a move to support those affected by the ban, the government has pledged full assistance to dog meat farmers, butchers, and restaurant owners, though specific details regarding compensation are yet to be finalized.
Recent government statistics indicate that in 2023, South Korea boasted around 1,600 dog meat restaurants and 1,150 dog farms. While dishes like “boshintang,” a dog meat stew, have been considered a delicacy among older South Koreans, the younger generation increasingly rejects the consumption of dog meat, contributing to the decline in its popularity
