SOUTH KOREA TO END DOG MEAT INDUSTRY WITH SUBSIDIES AND REHOMING PLAN

Thu 26 September 2024:

South Korea is set to phase out its dog meat industry by 2027, with plans to rehome nearly half a million dogs bred for food. The agriculture ministry announced Thursday that it will offer subsidies and incentives to help dog farmers transition away from the controversial practice. This move follows a growing push for animal welfare and declining demand for dog meat.

Incentives and Rehoming Efforts

The government has allocated 100 billion won ($75 million) to encourage dog breeders, farmers, and restaurants to cease operations. Vice Agriculture Minister Park Beom-su explained that farmers can receive up to 600,000 won ($452) for each dog surrendered, and authorities will work to have the animals adopted or placed in shelters. Park reassured the public, saying, “I can certainly say, that is not our plan,” in response to concerns about potential euthanasia or the dogs being processed for consumption.

Shifting Cultural Views on Dog Meat

Historically, eating dog meat was believed to boost stamina during South Korea’s humid summers, but the tradition has waned as more Koreans view dogs as pets and express concern over animal cruelty. Currently, South Korea has over 1,500 dog breeding farms and 2,300 restaurants still serving dog meat. However, support for the ban has grown, especially under President Yoon Suk Yeol, a known animal lover who, alongside First Lady Kim Keon Hee, advocates for the welfare of animals.

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Mixed Reactions to the Ban

While the ban is seen as a significant milestone for animal rights, some activists and members of the dog meat industry have voiced concerns. Sangkyung Lee, from Humane Society International, warned that South Korea’s animal shelters may struggle to accommodate the influx of dogs. “There is no way animal shelters can take in that huge number of dogs,” he said, pointing out that only a small percentage of pets in the country are rescued animals.

On the other hand, Ju Yeongbong, a representative of the dog meat industry, criticized the government’s support as insufficient, arguing that more reasonable plans should follow to help those whose livelihoods depend on the practice. He vowed to fight for better compensation for affected farmers and businesses.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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