South Korea bans dog meat industry, but questions hang on the fate of half a million dogs: Report | Today news

South Korea’s landmark decision to ban the dog meat industry is considered a great victory for animal rights and a reflection of the developing societal values. The livestock legislation, which was unanimously approved in January 2024, will breed, sell, sell and serve meat nationwide by 2027. According to a BBC report, while the move is the beginning of the end for an age-old practice, it has left both dog meat farmers and animal welfare groups facing uncertainty. According to data from the South Korea’s Ministry of Food, Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, more than 520,000 dogs are raised at 1.156 farms at 2022. Nearly 388,000 dogs were consumed annually in 1.666 restaurants. While public attitudes towards dog meat have moved dramatically over the past few years, with a 2023 Gallup poll showing that only 8% of South Korea has consumed dog meat over the past year (from 27% in 2015), the logistics and ethical challenges to take out the industry remain complicated. Animal rights groups welcomed the move. Jungah Chae of the Humane Society International Korea described the law as ‘history in the making’. Yet rescue organizations are now rushing to reach dogs that otherwise face, or euthanasia. Dog farmers, meanwhile, express deep concerns. Some, like Mr. Chan-woo-who joined the trade a decade ago-says the industry is now in ‘complete limbo’ because they are awaiting the clarity of government’s remuneration or transition support. Others, including Mr. Joo, fear that the pressure can lead to desperate outcomes without concrete help. The legislation also provided resistance of those who consider the move as the government over a personal dietary choices. While younger generations of dogs are increasingly regarded as family members, others argue that the law is undermining the cultural tradition. The South Korean government has promised support for farmers and businesses affected by the ban, but details remain limited. As the 2027 deadline approaches, activists say that the right test lies not only in maintaining, but to ensure that the dogs trapped in the middle are not forgotten.