South Korea is preparing to ban the consumption of dog meat by 2027

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 09. 27. 10:44

South Korea has announced a comprehensive plan to completely eliminate dog meat consumption in the country by 2027. According to a statement from the Ministry of Agriculture, the government is taking measures to ensure that nearly half a million food dogs are properly housed, and to provide support and incentives to dog breeders. With this step, they put an end to a centuries-old, controversial tradition, the international perception of which is sharply negative, reports Infostart.

In January 2024, the parliament already adopted the law prohibiting the consumption and sale of dog meat, which will enter into force in February 2027 after a three-year preparation period. The ban enjoys widespread support in the country, especially among younger generations who increasingly see dogs as pets rather than a source of food. The consumption of dog meat has survived only among the older generations, as the younger people largely reject this practice.

Subsidies and penalties for complying with the law

Deputy Agriculture Minister Park Beom-soo said the government will allocate nearly 100 billion won (about HUF 27 billion) to dog breeders, processors and restaurants serving dog meat to encourage them to close their businesses. Businesses that refuse to voluntarily give up this activity can face severe penalties. Dog meat processors can face up to three years in prison or a fine of 30 million won (about HUF 8 million), while breeding dogs for their meat can result in two years in prison or a fine of 20 million won (about HUF 5.3 million).

Although many fear that the remaining dogs may be euthanized or processed in the coming years, the government has made it clear that this is not part of the plan. Special attention is paid to the accommodation and care of the animals.