South Korea’s Dog Meat Ban: End of an Industry or a Disaster for Farmers?
South Korea has passed a revolutionary law banning the sale of dog meat, but what happens to the hundreds of thousands of dogs that were part of this industry until recently? While animal rights activists celebrate, farmers are left jobless, with hundreds of dogs they cannot sell and facing the threat of euthanasia.
Industry on the Brink of Collapse
Joo Jeong Bong, a South Korean priest and dog farmer, describes the situation as a disaster. His farm is full of dogs he cannot sell, and debts are piling up. “We are drowning in debt, we cannot pay it off, some can’t even find new jobs,” he says. Half of the grace period for the law’s implementation has passed, and farmers remain trapped in a vicious cycle with no way out.
Where Are the Dogs Now?
The government claims local authorities will take over the dogs if owners relinquish them, but finding new homes is a nightmare. Farm dogs tend to be larger and unpopular as pets, and the stigma attached to dog meat further complicates adoption. Shelters are overcrowded, and euthanasia is increasingly mentioned as the only option for rescued dogs.
Contradictions and Dilemmas
While the ban and animal protection are important, many question why dog meat is banned but not meat from other animals. Former farm owner Jang Jong Tae points out, “If dogs are animals, why then eat cows, pigs, or chickens?” Also, food safety risks related to dog meat in South Korea are higher because the industry is not formally regulated.
Declining Consumption and Social Change
A 2021 survey showed only 8% of South Koreans had tried dog meat in the past 12 months, down from 27% in 2018. Fewer people are willing to eat dog meat, and the ban has only accelerated this trend.
What’s Next?
The government has promised to invest about $4.3 million to expand shelters and support farmers closing farms early. However, experts warn the plans are insufficient and a clear strategy is needed to address the fate of the remaining dogs. Some farmers are already wondering if they can endure this uncertainty.
Conclusion
South Korea has taken a bold step to end the dog meat industry, but the cost is borne by farmers and dogs left homeless. Will the state find a humane solution, or will it face a wave of euthanasia? This is a real drama just beginning.
Got thoughts on this? Whether you’re for or against the ban, drop a comment and share your take — silence isn’t an option here!
