South Korea Says Farewell to Dog Meat: Parliament Enacts Historic Ban
A controversial chapter in gastronomy is closing in South Korea: dog meat is no longer on the menu. Soon it will be banned, banned, no more dog meat stew. Parliament, in a historic act, has established a ban on breeding, slaughtering and selling dogs for food purposes. The decision comes after years of pressure from animal rights activists, who have often labeled the practice a dark spot in the country’s culture.
With a unanimous vote of 208-0, the National Assembly ushered in a new era, calling it a true “cultural revolution.” The law, however, will not come into force immediately: it will be preceded by a three-year transitional period, during which current practices will be gradually phased out.
The sanctions for those who do not comply with the new decree are severe: anyone who continues to participate in the breeding, sale or slaughter of dogs for consumption risks up to three years in prison or a fine of 30 million won, equal to approximately 21,000 euros.
With this decision, South Korea is moving away from entrenched but controversial culinary use and moving towards standards more in line with growing ethical and animal welfare concerns.
