Key facts
- South Korea's nationwide ban on the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for meat will take full effect in February 2027.
- The recent 'boknal' summer days were the last before the ban's implementation.
- Many businesses, particularly in traditional hubs like Moran Market, have already begun transitioning to alternative foods such as black goat stew.
- Public opinion has shifted significantly, with a large majority supporting the ban and expressing no intention to consume dog meat.
- The legislation, passed in January 2024, includes a three-year grace period and imposes penalties for violations.
- Support measures are promised for those affected by the ban.
South Korea is entering the final year before a nationwide ban on the dog meat trade takes full effect in February 2027. The recent 'boknal' period, traditionally a busy time for dog meat restaurants seeking to boost stamina during the hottest days of summer, carried a sense of finality as it was the last before the prohibition.
At Moran Market in Seongnam, once a prominent center for dog meat, the lunchtime crowds were notably smaller. Many businesses have already shifted to offering alternatives like black goat stew, while the remaining customers ordering 'bosintang' (dog meat stew) were predominantly elderly.
Kim Yong-book, head of the Moran Market Merchants' Association, described the area as having become "a town of old people," reflecting the long-term decline in dog meat consumption. This decline is attributed to increasing pet ownership and a growing public concern for animal welfare, which has transformed societal attitudes.
A survey conducted before the ban's passage revealed that over 90% of respondents had no intention of eating dog meat in the future, and more than 80% supported a ban. Government data indicates that over 5,600 businesses are impacted by the legislation, with most dog farms already having closed.
The campaign to end the dog meat trade gained significant traction under former President Yoon Suk Yeol and his wife, Kim Keon Hee, an advocate for animal welfare. Parliament passed the legislation in January 2024, establishing a three-year grace period before full enforcement begins in February 2027, with penalties for violations. Authorities have also committed to providing support for affected farmers, distributors, and restaurant owners.
Restaurant owner Lee Kang-chun, who has been in the trade for 37 years, expressed mixed emotions. While acknowledging the ban's positive impact on South Korea's global image and evolving social norms, he conveyed sadness over elderly customers who travel long distances for a meal they believe offers health benefits. Despite soaring costs and minimal profits, he continues to serve the dish for his loyal regulars.
Lee noted that many restaurants have switched to black goat stew, but the transition has been challenging and does not fully compensate for the loss of dog meat sales. Customers like Yoo Jin-sam, who has eaten dog meat since his early twenties, expressed disappointment, lamenting the loss of a dish believed to be good for health. Another customer, Kim Jin-suk, indicated less regret, stating they could simply eat something else.