In an effort to address the ongoing controversy surrounding the long-standing tradition of consuming dog meat, South Korea is taking a stance against it. The government, in collaboration with the ruling People Power Party, has agreed to introduce a new law by the end of this year that will put an end to dog meat consumption by 2027, according to officials.
The practice of eating dogs, which has been a part of Korean culture for centuries, has faced backlash from foreign nations for quite some time. However, there has also been a surge in opposition within the country itself, especially among the younger generation.
To resolve the social conflicts and controversies surrounding this issue, Yu Eui-dong, the police chief of the People Power Party, expressed the need for a special act to be enacted, which would ultimately put an end to dog meat consumption. Government officials and animal protection activists came together for a meeting where this proposal was discussed.
According to local media reports, the proposed legislation will not only ban the breeding of dogs for slaughter, but also the sale of dog meat. Additionally, a grace period of three years will be provided, during which financial assistance will be offered to businesses involved in the dog meat trade, to aid in their transition away from this industry.
It is anticipated that this bill will receive bipartisan support in Parliament, ensuring a smooth legislative process. Agriculture Minister Chung Hwang-keun, speaking at the meeting, pledged that the government would swiftly implement the ban and offer extensive support to those in the dog meat industry who may need to shut down their businesses.
First Lady Kim Keon-hee has been an outspoken critic of dog meat consumption and, along with her husband, President Yoon Suk-yeol, has actively adopted stray dogs. Their advocacy for animal welfare has undoubtedly played a role in raising awareness and garnering support for this issue.
