In a significant move, South Korea has officially banned the sale of dog meat for consumption, marking a historic shift in the country’s relationship with this controversial practice. The ban, which was enacted in January 2024, gives dog farmers until February 2027 to wind down their operations and sell off their remaining animals. This decision comes amid growing public sentiment against dog meat consumption, which has declined sharply over the years.
Reverend Joo Yeong-bong, a dog farmer, shared his struggles with the BBC, noting that business has become increasingly difficult. He has not been able to sell any of his dogs since the ban was announced. Many farmers like him are now left with hundreds of dogs and little hope for their future. The new law aims to phase out an industry that has sustained livelihoods for generations, but it has raised concerns about the fate of the estimated half a million dogs still in captivity.
Animal rights advocates and experts have pointed out that the ban lacks a clear plan for enforcement and the rehoming of these dogs. As more farmers face financial hardship, there are fears that many of these animals could end up being euthanized if suitable homes cannot be found. The stigma surrounding dogs raised for meat complicates adoption efforts, as potential pet owners often prefer smaller breeds, and many of the dogs are larger breeds like tosa-inus, which are classified as dangerous in South Korea.
Chan-woo, another farmer, expressed frustration about the lack of support for farmers during this transition. He has 600 dogs to manage but feels overwhelmed by the impending deadline. He criticized the government for passing the law without a solid plan for the dogs left behind. The Ministry of Agriculture has stated that local governments will take ownership of the dogs if the farmers surrender them, but rehoming has proven to be a significant challenge.
Organizations like Humane World for Animals Korea (Hwak) have been working to rescue dogs from meat farms, successfully relocating nearly 2,800 dogs since 2015. However, they cannot absorb the massive number of dogs that need help. The government has promised financial support for farmers who close their businesses, but many are still uncertain about their futures.
The cultural perception of dog meat in South Korea has shifted dramatically. A recent government poll revealed that only 8% of respondents had eaten dog meat in the past year, down from 27% in 2015. This decline reflects a broader societal change, with many now viewing dogs as companions rather than livestock.
As the ban takes effect, dog farmers are left grappling with the reality of their changing industry. Many worry about their livelihoods and the fate of the dogs they have raised. Some fear the possibility of going underground with their operations, while others hope for an extension of the grace period to find a more gradual solution.
With the ban in place, South Korea is at a crossroads. The future of the dog meat industry and the welfare of countless dogs now hang in the balance, as the country navigates this significant cultural shift.