South Korea Officially Bans Dog Meat Trade and Consumption

South Korea – The South Korean Parliament on Tuesday finally imposed a significant law on the trade and consumption of the dog meat. This comes as public calls for the ban have been increasing due to concerns about animal rights and the country's international image.

Some angry dog farmers have stated their plans to challenge the constitutionality of the bill and organize demonstrations, signaling a continued fierce debate over the ban. 

After a three-year grace period, the bill will make the slaughter, breeding, and sale of dog meat for human consumption illegal starting in 2027, with a penalty of 2-3 years of imprisonment.

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Penjualan daging anjing. (ilustrasi)

Photo :

• VIVA/Andrew Tito

The consumption of dog meat, a practice that has been ongoing for centuries on the Korean Peninsula, is neither explicitly prohibited nor legalized in South Korea. 

It has long been regarded as a source of stamina during the hot summer days. A recent survey indicates that more than half of South Koreans want dog meat banned, and the majority no longer consume it.

However, one in three South Koreans still opposes the ban, even if they don't consume it. The National Assembly passed the bill with a vote of 208-0. 

The ban will become law after being approved by the Cabinet and signed by President Yoon Suk Yeol, and it is considered a formality as his government supports the ban.

"This law aims to contribute to realizing the values of animal rights, which seek to respect life and coexist harmoniously between humans and animals," it said. 

The bill offers assistance to dog farmers and other stakeholders in this industry in closing their businesses and transitioning to alternative ventures. 

The details are to be discussed among government officials, farmers, experts, and animal rights activists.

Dozens of animal rights activists gathered at the National Assembly to celebrate the passage of the bill. They carried large photos of dogs, chanted slogans, and held signs that read, "A dog meat-free Korea is coming."

Humane Society International referred to the bill's approval as "making history."

"I never thought in my lifetime I would see a ban on the cruel dog meat industry in South Korea, but this historic win for these animals is a testament to the spirit and determination of our animal protection movement," said JungAh Chae, executive director of HSI's Korea office, as quoted by AP site. 

As known, dogs are also consumed in China, Vietnam, Indonesia, North Korea, and some African countries. 

However, the dog meat industry in South Korea draws more attention due to the country's reputation as a cultural and economic powerhouse. South Korea is also the only country with industrial-scale dog farms.

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The bill offers assistance to dog farmers and other stakeholders in this industry in closing their businesses and transitioning to alternative ventures.