South Korea Moves to Ban Dog Meat with Support for Farmers

South Korea is set to ban dog meat consumption by 2027. The government will provide subsidies to help farmers transition away from dog breeding and restaurants that serve dog meat. There is growing support for animal welfare in the country, but the plan has met with some criticism.

South Korea will rehome nearly half a million dogs bred for food, offering subsidies to farmers as part of a plan to ban dog meat by early 2027, according to the agriculture ministry.

In January, parliament passed a landmark bill to end the sale and consumption of dog meat, amidst rising animal welfare support and decreasing demand for the dish.

Vice Agriculture Minister Park Beom-su announced that approximately 100 billion won ($75 million) would be allocated to encourage breeders, farmers, and restaurants to cease their operations, including a payout of up to 600,000 won ($452) per surrendered dog.

Park assured that there are no plans to euthanize the remaining dogs, with many set to be adopted or rehomed in shelters.

The ban, effective from February 2027, has seen support from President Yoon Suk Yeol, an animal lover, although it has faced criticism for inadequate livelihood support and animal welfare management.

Animal rights groups applaud the move but stress better welfare management, while dog meat industry representatives argue for increased government support.

(With inputs from agencies.)