South Korea’s parliament passed a bill on Tuesday prohibiting the production and sale of dog meat.
The national assembly overwhelmingly voted to ban the breeding, slaughter, distribution, and sale of dogs for meat, responding to both domestic and international pressure that had persisted for years from animal welfare advocates.
Also read: Hoi An, Vietnam signs agreement to not sell or consume dog and cat meat
Cape {town} Etc discount: Looking for things to do in the city at half the price? Let these great offers inspire you and fuel your imagination! Get them here.
While the new law does not criminalise the act of consuming dog meat, it effectively puts an end to the practice, which some believe has roots in centuries-old traditions.
The ban, securing 208 votes in favour with two abstentions, is set to be implemented in 2027, following a three-year grace period. Violators may face imprisonment for up to three years or a maximum fine of 30 million won (R422 000). The legislation also includes compensation packages to support businesses transitioning away from the dog meat industry.
Historically, cooking with dog meat, often served in stews, was viewed as a method to combat fatigue, especially during hot summers, but its popularity has drastically declined in recent decades, particularly among younger South Koreans who view dogs as domestic pets.
A recent survey released by the Seoul-based Animal Welfare Awareness, Research, and Education thinktank revealed that over 94% of respondents had not consumed dog meat in the past year, and 93% expressed the intention not to do so in the future.
Official statistics revealed a 40% decrease in the number of restaurants serving dogs in the capital, Seoul, between 2005 and 2014 due to the declining demand.
Despite this decline, approximately 1,150 farms continue to breed dogs for meat, and 1,600 restaurants still offer dog meat dishes in South Korea, as reported by the agriculture ministry.
Animal welfare campaigners have long criticised the industry for its perceived cruelty, including electrocuting or hanging dogs during the slaughter process. Traders, who had previously threatened large-scale protests against the anticipated ban, argue that they have implemented more humane slaughtering methods.
JungAh Chae, the executive director of Humane Society International/Korea, celebrated the historic moment, stating, ‘This is history in the making. I never thought I would see in my lifetime a ban on the cruel dog meat industry in South Korea, but this historic win for animals is a testament to the passion and determination of our animal protection movement.’
Chae expressed sadness for the dogs who had suffered but also joy that South Korea can now move towards a more dog-friendly future.
Explore Cape Town and its surroundings with these incredible deals on cars for under R100 000. Find car listings here.
Also read:
Ink with impact: SPCA’s Tats4Tails returns for its fifth consecutive year
Picture: Pranidchakan Boonrom / Pexels
