Bill passed to ban dog meat sale in South Korea

South Korea’s Parliament on Tuesday (January 9) passed a bill to ban the consumption and sale of dog meat in the country.

The move reflects a shift in societal attitudes towards animal welfare, with an increasing number of Koreans viewing dogs as family members.

The legislation, set to come into force by 2027, aims to end the centuries-old practice of humans eating dog meat.

Traditionally perceived as a means to boost stamina during the humid Korean summer, the consumption of dog meat has dwindled over time, with the practice now primarily associated with older people. Criticism of the methods used in slaughtering dogs, such as electrocution or hanging, has contributed to the decline in the practice.

The legislation reads, “This law is aimed at contributing to realizing the values of animal rights, which pursue respect for life and a harmonious co-existence between humans and animals.”

Traders have pointed out that progress has been made in adopting more humane slaughtering practices.

The bill, proposed by the ruling party, received overwhelming support in the single-chamber parliament, garnering 208 votes with two abstentions after approval by the bipartisan agriculture committee on Monday.

President Yoon Suk Yeol, known for his love of animals and having adopted six dogs and eight cats with First Lady Kim Keon Hee, who is also a vocal critic of dog meat consumption, has led to growing support for the ban.

The legislation is set to take effect after a three-year grace period, and violations could result in up to three years in prison or fines of 30 million won ($22,800).

(With inputs from agencies)