South Korea to ban eating dogs

South Korea is taking steps to ban the consumption of dog meat, aiming to address both domestic disputes and international criticism surrounding this longstanding practice. The move comes in response to increasing awareness of animal rights, particularly among the younger generation in South Korea. Yu Eui-dong, policy chief of the ruling People Power Party, has unveiled plans to introduce a special act to prohibit the consumption of dog meat, with a bill expected to be presented later this year. The government and ruling party envision a ban that includes a three-year grace period and financial support for businesses transitioning away from the dog meat industry. This decision reflects a global trend toward greater consideration for animal welfare and mirrors the evolving values within South Korean society.

The Korean tradition of consuming dog meat has faced condemnation from abroad due to concerns about cruelty, and there has been a growing opposition within South Korea, particularly among the younger population. Yu Eui-dong emphasized the need to end social conflicts and controversies related to dog meat consumption through the proposed legislation. Agriculture Minister Chung Hwang-keun assured swift implementation of the ban and pledged maximum support for those in the dog meat industry seeking to close their businesses.

The move is not without challenges, as previous attempts to pass anti-dog meat bills faced protests from those involved in the industry, raising concerns about the livelihoods of farmers and restaurant owners. The proposed ban, with its three-year grace period and financial support provisions, aims to address these concerns and facilitate a smooth transition away from the practice.

First lady Kim Keon Hee, who, along with President Yoon Suk Yeol, has adopted stray dogs, has been a vocal critic of dog meat consumption. The proposed legislation aligns with a broader societal shift away from traditional practices that raise ethical and animal welfare concerns. Animal rights groups have welcomed the prospect of a ban, with Humane Society International stating that it is a "dream come true" for those who have campaigned against the cruelty associated with the dog meat industry.

While consuming dog meat has deep historical roots on the Korean peninsula, the practice has become less common in South Korea, especially among the younger generation. The proposed ban reflects changing attitudes toward animal welfare and the desire to align with evolving global standards. According to government data, there are approximately 1,150 breeding farms, 34 slaughterhouses, 219 distribution companies, and around 1,600 restaurants serving dog meat in South Korea. A Gallup Korea poll from last year indicated that 64% of respondents opposed dog meat consumption, signifying a shift in public sentiment. The survey also revealed a decline in the number of people who had eaten dog meat within the past year, from 27% in 2015 to 8% in the latest survey.