01/09/2024

South Korea’s Parliament Unanimously Passes Historic Dog Meat Ban

The ban marks a significant turning point in the nation's attitude on animal rights

On Tuesday, following decades of deliberation spanning multiple administrations, South Korea's parliament unanimously passed a special bill to outlaw the dog meat industry, a move welcomed by animal rights advocates both domestic and worldwide.

The ban, which was passed on Tuesday with 208 votes in favor, none against, and two abstentions, will take effect after a grace period of three years. Starting in 2027, those who breed, butcher, distribute or sell dog meat for human consumption may be jailed up to three years or fined up to 30 million won ($22,800).

"This ban marks a significant turning point in South Korea's attitude to animal protection," Sangkyung Lee, a campaign manager at Humane Society International said in a statement on Tuesday. "While dog meat is only eaten by a very small proportion of the population, millions of dogs had to endure unimaginable pain and suffering."

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