Dog Meat Trade To Be Banned In South Korea

(Photo Credit: bbc.com)

South Korea has passed a law with the goal of ceasing the slaughter and trade of dogs for their meat by 2027—a historic measure signaling the end of the centuries-old practice of consuming dog meat. The legislation aims to halt the raising, slaughtering, distribution, and selling of dogs for consumption, introducing severe penalties, including potential prison sentences, for those found in violation of the law.

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Under this new law, individuals involved in butchering dogs could face up to three years in prison, while those who raise or sell dogs for meat may confront a maximum imprisonment term of two years. Although the consumption of dog meat itself will not be considered illegal, the activities associated with preparing and marketing it will be firmly prohibited.

To facilitate the transition and provide support during this monumental shift, the government has granted a three-year period before the law goes into effect. This timeline is aimed at allowing dog meat farmers and restaurant proprietors to explore alternative sources of livelihood and submit phase-out plans to their local authorities. While promises of comprehensive support for those affected have been made, the specifics of the compensation package are yet to be finalized.

As the nation grapples with the implications of this monumental decision, it's worth noting that South Korea currently boasts approximately 1,600 dog meat restaurants and 1,150 dog farms, a reflection of the historical prevalence of this trade. Despite the tradition of dog meat stew, known as "boshintang," being considered a delicacy among older generations, it has progressively lost favor among the younger populace.

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Statistics indicate a significant decline in the consumption and support for dog meat, with a Gallup poll revealing a sharp decrease in both categories over recent years. This shift in public sentiment has paralleled a broader trend of decreasing acceptance of the practice among the younger demographic, signaling a marked transformation in societal attitudes toward dog meat consumption.

This landmark legislation has been championed by President Yoon Suk Yeol and the First Lady Kim Keon Hee, who have been vocal advocates for animal rights, owning six dogs themselves. The passage of this law also represents a significant victory for animal rights organizations that have persistently lobbied for the end of the dog meat trade, signaling a momentous victory for their cause.

While the law has been met with widespread acclaim from proponents of animal welfare, it has also sparked concerns and resistance from dog meat farmers and restaurateurs, particularly among the elderly, who worry about the impact on their livelihoods and personal freedoms. Despite these challenges and differing perspectives, this shift represents an important step in South Korea's journey towards embracing a future characterized by compassion and a harmonious coexistence with animals.

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Source: bbc.com