A traditional but highly controversial practice in South Korea has been banned. By 2027, all farms for the production and sale of dog meat will have to close, and already an estimated 40 percent have already closed their doors. In fact, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, 623 of the 1,537 active farms in the country have ceased operations, and it is expected that by the end of 2025, the percentage of closed farms will be 60 percent. Thanks to government subsidies, many of these breeders have already started other activities, some of them in completely different sectors.
According to government data, South Korea had about 1,600 dog meat restaurants and 1,150 dog farms in 2023. This government decision represents not only a change in legislation, but also a profound transformation in South Korean culture and society. The consumption of this meat, in fact, according to tradition, has always been a propitiatory and auspicious act.
The sensibilities, especially, of the younger generation have changed greatly over the years, and now more and more South Koreans regard dogs as pets. Nevertheless, there remains a section of the population that opposes the change, especially those living in the more rural areas, ranchers, and restaurant owners.
Those who violate this ban from 2027 will be punishable by imprisonment of up to three years and a fine of thirty million won (about 21 thousand euros). There are no penalties, however, for eating dog meat.
