South Korea’s Dog Meat Industry Faces Imminent Closure: A Shift in Cultural Norms

In a significant cultural shift, South Korea is on the brink of phasing out its dog meat industry, a practice that has been a part of its culinary landscape for centuries. The government has set a deadline of 2027 for the complete cessation of dog meat consumption, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s evolving relationship with animals. This transition reflects broader changes in societal attitudes toward animal welfare and food consumption.

Historical Context of Dog Meat Consumption in South Korea

Historically, dog meat has been consumed in South Korea, particularly during the summer months, with the belief that it provides health benefits. At its peak, the dog meat market supplied approximately one-third of the country’s canine meat, according to local media reports. However, as societal values have shifted, the practice has come under increasing scrutiny.

In 2018, the government took initial steps to curb the trade by closing down major markets and banning the sale of live dogs. This move aligned South Korea with other Asian nations, such as Taiwan and Hong Kong, where dog meat consumption has been outlawed. The decline of the industry has been further accelerated by changing consumer preferences, particularly among younger generations who view dogs more as companions than as food.

The Decline of the Dog Meat Industry

Kim, a dog meat vendor, reflects on the drastic changes in his business. Once thriving, he now sells a mere 10 kilograms of dog meat daily, a stark contrast to the 100 kilograms he sold at the height of his business. “When business was good, we sold a lot of dog meat,” Kim laments, acknowledging that the industry is in decline, particularly among his primary clientele-older Koreans.

Recent surveys underscore this trend. A Gallup Korea poll conducted in 2022 revealed that only 8% of Koreans had consumed dog meat in the past year, a significant drop from 27% in 2015. Furthermore, 64% of respondents expressed opposition to the practice, indicating a growing consensus against it.

Legislative Changes and Their Implications

In 2024, the South Korean government enacted a national law that mandates the closure of dog farms and the cessation of dog meat sales by 2027. This legislation provides financial support for farmers and vendors transitioning to alternative livelihoods. Farmers who close their operations by early 2025 can receive compensation of up to 600,000 won per dog surrendered, with decreasing amounts as the deadline approaches.

However, the law has raised concerns among animal rights activists and farmers alike. Chae Il-taek, a senior director at the Korean Animal Welfare Association, emphasizes the need for clear guidelines on the treatment of dogs that cannot be rehomed. “From an animal protection perspective, this is difficult and frustrating to discuss,” he states, highlighting the potential for euthanasia as a more humane option than slaughter.

The Human Element: Stories of Rescue and Transition

On a recent Saturday morning in Seoul’s Olympic Park district, Cha Hee-jung, a passionate animal rights advocate, walks her dog Dodam, whom she rescued from a dog farm eight years ago. Dodam, once a frightened puppy confined to a small cage, now enjoys a life of companionship. Cha’s experience underscores the emotional toll of the dog meat industry, which she describes as “a very, very dark business.”

Cha’s efforts to rescue dogs from farms often involved paying farmers to relinquish their animals, a practice that proved unsustainable as some farmers continued to breed more dogs. With the impending ban, she urges the government to provide financial assistance for rescuers and to ensure that remaining dogs are treated humanely.

Challenges Ahead for Farmers

Despite the government’s commitment to monitor the market and facilitate the transition, many dog farmers face significant challenges. Ju Young-bong, president of the Korea Dog Meat Association, points out that most dog farmers are over 60 years old and lack the resources to invest in new facilities for alternative livestock. “Every dog facility must be demolished, and a new facility must be built for new species. That requires massive investment,” he explains.

As of now, over 70% of dog farms have already shut down, leaving approximately 500 still operational. Ju’s own farm has seen a drastic reduction in the number of dogs, from 2,000 to just 300. He argues that the government should extend compensation to cover the loss of income for farmers during this transition period to prevent them from facing financial hardship.

The Shift to Alternative Proteins

As the dog meat industry dwindles, many vendors are pivoting to alternative sources of protein. Kim, the dog meat vendor, notes that while only a handful of shops still sell dog meat, many are now focusing on goat meat, which he claims “tastes almost the same.” This shift reflects a broader trend in South Korea, where consumers are increasingly open to exploring different types of meat.

The Moran black goat meat market, once bustling with dog meat sales, now appears quieter, with vendors adapting to the changing landscape. The rising costs of dog meat, coupled with a shrinking customer base, have prompted many to seek new avenues for their businesses.

Conclusion: A New Era for Animal Welfare in South Korea

The impending closure of the dog meat industry in South Korea marks a significant cultural transformation, reflecting changing attitudes toward animal welfare and food consumption. As the government implements its ban, the focus will shift to ensuring humane treatment for the dogs that remain and supporting farmers in their transition to new livelihoods.

This evolution not only highlights the complexities of cultural practices but also underscores the importance of compassion and ethical considerations in our relationship with animals. As South Korea moves toward becoming a more advanced nation in terms of animal welfare, the journey ahead will require collaboration, understanding, and a commitment to humane treatment for all creatures.