South Korea's parliament decisively passed a landmark ban on Tuesday, prohibiting the production and sales of dog meat. The decision comes amid a surge in public demand for such a prohibition, driven by growing concerns about animal welfare and the impact on the country's international reputation.
The bill, which garnered a unanimous 208-0 vote in the National Assembly, stipulates a three-year grace period before the ban takes effect. From 2027 onward, slaughtering, breeding, and sales of dog meat for human consumption will be illegal, carrying penalties of 2-3 years in prison. Surprisingly, the legislation does not impose any penalties on individuals consuming dog meat.
Rooted in centuries-old tradition on the Korean Peninsula, dog meat consumption has been a source of stamina, particularly during hot summer days. Recent surveys reveal a shifting attitude, with over half of South Koreans supporting a ban and a majority abstaining from consuming dog meat. However, one-third of the population still opposes the ban despite not partaking in the practice.
“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,” the legislation states, emphasizing the ethical underpinnings of the decision.
To ease the transition for dog farmers affected by the ban, the bill offers assistance in shutting down their businesses and transitioning to alternative livelihoods. The specific details of this support will be collaboratively determined by government officials, farmers, experts, and animal rights activists.
Animal rights activists gathered at the National Assembly to celebrate the bill's passage, displaying large photos of dogs, chanting slogans, and holding placards proclaiming “Dog meat-free Korea is coming.” The Humane Society International called the legislation’s approval “history in the making.”
“I never thought I would see in my lifetime a ban on the cruel dog meat industry in South Korea, but this historic win for animals is testament to the passion and determination of our animal protection movement,” said JungAh Chae, executive director of HSI’s Korea office.
While South Korea is not the only country where dogs are consumed, its dog meat industry has attracted heightened scrutiny due to the nation's global reputation. South Korea stands as the only country with industrial-scale dog farms, some housing up to 7,000 dogs.
However, not all stakeholders are celebrating the ban. Dog farmers expressed anger and frustration, with plans to challenge the bill's constitutionality and stage protests. Farmers argue that the ban infringes on their freedom to choose their occupation, and they plan to file a petition with the Constitutional Court of Korea.
The absence of clear details on how dog farmers will be supported has raised concerns. Agriculture Minister Song Mi-ryung assured that the government would work to formulate reasonable assistance programs, but the specifics remain to be clarified.
The legislation received a significant boost from the country’s first lady, Kim Keon Hee, who has been a vocal supporter of the prohibition. However, she has faced criticism and insults during demonstrations by dog farmers.
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As South Korea takes this significant step towards ending the dog meat industry, the nation grapples with the challenges of transitioning affected farmers and addressing the diversity of opinions within its population. The passage of this bill reflects the evolving societal values and the pursuit of a more humane coexistence between humans and animals.
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