Banning the consumption of dog meat in South Korea was one of President Yoon Suk Yeol's key campaign promises, and now Parliament has approved the measure – not without controversy – with 208 votes in favor and 2 abstentions. The bill –Theprohibits the breeding, cutting, distribution, and sale of dogs for consumption of this meat– provides subsidies so that those working in the industry can change jobs without major economic loss.
The measure passed in South Korea's parliament has a three-year grace period starting in 2027, and those who violate the rule can be prosecuted. Penalties of up to two years in prison or fines of up to 30 million won, or around 20,000 euros.
Animal protection groups immediately welcomed the ban. Relegating this outdated industry to the history books is a game-changer, they add.
It is estimated that there are active ones in South Korea 1,150 dog farms -Hatches that become illegal-, in addition to around thirty slaughterhouses, more than 200 retailers and around 1,600 restaurants who offer dishes with dog meat on their menu.
