South Korea Plans to Compensate Dog Meat Farmers Ahead of 2027 Ban

South Korea has decided to compensate farmers in its declining dog meat industry before the formal ban goes into effect in 2027. The bill, passed in January, will penalize those involved in dog meat activities with prison sentences. The move faces opposition from both farmers and animal rights activists.

South Korea unveiled plans on Thursday to offer compensation to farmers and others affected by the impending ban on dog meat, set to take effect in 2027. This announcement is stirring opposition from farmers and animal rights activists alike.

In January, South Korea's parliament passed a groundbreaking bill that will outlaw the slaughtering, breeding, or selling of dog meat for human consumption after a three-year grace period. Violators will face 2-3 years in prison. The Agriculture Ministry plans to pay farmers between 225,000 won (USD 170) and 600,000 won (USD 450) per dog to encourage early business closures.

While farmers argue that the proposed compensation is insufficient and will worsen their economic hardships, animal rights activists criticize the plan for potentially increasing dog breeding. Vice Agriculture Minister Park Beomsu said government efforts would focus on voluntary business closures and facilitating dog adoptions.

(With inputs from agencies.)