Korea to end dog meat consumption by 2027

Korea plans to ban dog meat consumption in 2027 with a proposed law banning breeding, slaughter, distribution, and sale.

A member of an animal rights group speaks at a press conference on Sept. 8 in front of the Seoul City Council in central Seoul, urging the establishment of a bylaw prohibiting the consumption of dog meat. [NEWS1]

The Korean government will root out the consumption of dog meat by implementing a special law set to take effect in 2027, ending the centuries-old practice of dog meat consumption in the nation.

The proposed legislation will comprehensively ban the breeding, slaughter, distribution, and sale of dogs for consumption. To facilitate a smooth transition, a three-year grace period has been included in the plan, allowing businesses, particularly restaurants, the time to adjust before strict enforcement begins in 2027 — when the Yoon Suk Yeol administration ends its term.

“We will push for the prompt passage of the special law on the prohibition of dog meat consumption within the year to resolve the dog meat issue as soon as possible,” said Rep. Yu Eui-dong, the ruling People Power Party's chief policymaker, following a meeting of the government and government parties on Friday.

He further explained that immediate actions would follow the law's enactment, requiring businesses involved in dog meat production to submit cessation plans along with local government declarations.

Rep. Yu Eui-dong, People Power Party's chief policymaker, speaks at a meeting on the cessation of dog meat consumption and improvement of animal welfare held at the National Assembly in western Seoul on Friday. [NEWS1]

Presently, the government estimates there are more than 1,150 farms, 34 slaughterhouses, 219 distribution companies, and approximately 1,600 restaurants engaged in the production of dog meat.

Dog meat consumption in Korea has seen a notable decline in recent decades, with many perceiving the tradition as a potential cause for international embarrassment. Despite this shift, some advocates argue that it's important to give individuals the freedom to choose what they eat.

Alongside the special law, officials revealed plans to reclassify dogs outside the livestock category under existing livestock farming regulations.

To address the economic impact on affected parties, the government pledged support for people working in the dog meat industry to be affected by the impending prohibition. The Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs aims to provide selective assistance to households or businesses submitting declarations and compliance plans for the prohibition of dog meat consumption.

BY SEO JI-EUN [seo.jieun1@joongang.co.kr]