South Korea bans dog meat trade
South Korea recently made history by enacting a pioneering law that prohibits the slaughter and sale of dogs for meat, signifying a monumental stride towards ending the centuries-old practice of consuming dog meat. The legislation, slated to be enforced by 2027, focuses on criminalizing the dog meat trade while not explicitly outlawing the act of consuming dog meat itself.
Traditionally revered as “boshintang,” dog meat stew has held a place as a delicacy among certain older demographics in South Korea. However, its appeal has significantly dwindled, especially among the younger population. According to a recent Gallup poll, there has been a drastic decline in the consumption of dog meat, with a mere 8% of respondents having tried it in the past year, a stark contrast to the 27% recorded in 2015.
Under the recent legislation, individuals found guilty of slaughtering dogs could potentially face up to three years of imprisonment. Those involved in the breeding of dogs for meat or the sale of dog meat might encounter a maximum sentence of two years. To facilitate a smoother transition, farmers and restaurant proprietors are granted a grace period of three years to pivot towards alternative occupations.
This progressive step arrives amidst a shifting societal paradigm, wherein dogs are increasingly perceived as integral family members, resulting in amplified advocacy for animal rights. Recognizing the evolving sentiment towards dog consumption, the government aims not only to discourage this practice but also to assist impacted farmers, butchers, and restaurant proprietors in embracing new avenues of employment during this transition period.
While individuals like 86-year-old Kim Seon-ho express disappointment, citing the tradition’s roots dating back to the Middle Ages, a clear generational gap in perspectives emerges. President Yoon Suk Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon Hee, renowned for their affinity towards animals, have actively advocated for the cessation of this practice.
Various animal rights organizations, notably the Humane Society in Korea, have hailed the ban as a monumental achievement following years of unsuccessful attempts to address this issue. Jung Ah Chae, the executive director of the Humane Society in Korea, sees the ban as a testament to South Korea’s commitment toward a more compassionate and dog-friendly future.
Conversely, certain dog meat farmers oppose the ban, arguing that the diminishing interest among the younger populace should naturally phase out the practice without legislative intervention.
