An old custom in South Korea is about to end, its government is working on a new law that will ban the dog meat trade, including the closure of farms, slaughterhouses, and restaurants. The government and the ruling People’s Power Party agreed on Friday to introduce a law before the end of the year to end the consumption of dog meat by 2027: “It is time to put an end to social conflicts and controversies over the consumption of dog meat by enacting a special law to put an end to it,” said Yu Eui-dong, policy chief of the ruling People Power Party.
The ancient Korean practice of eating dogs has long generated criticism abroad, to which the new South Korean generations are currently adding. Local media reported that the legislation would prohibit the breeding of dogs for slaughter and the sale of dog meat. A three-year grace period would be accompanied by financial support for companies to exit the trade. Yu said the bill is expected to gain bipartisan support, allowing it to pass parliament.
Why do they eat dogs in South Korea?
The tradition of consuming dog meat, known as “Bosintang” in Korean, has its origins in ancient times; This habit dates back to the time of the three kingdoms that ruled the Korean peninsula between the 1st and 7th centuries.
At that time, it was believed that consuming this meat provided health benefits, such as resistance against disease and improved vital energy. Over time, this practice evolved and became established in South Korean culture, especially during the Goryeo dynasty (918-1392) and the Joseon dynasty (1392-1897). During these eras, dog meat was primarily consumed at festivals or special events and was associated with the belief that it provided strength and endurance.
Although it has declined, the tradition of consuming dog meat has persisted in South Korea despite sociocultural changes and the growing influence of globalization. In response to both domestic and international pressure, the South Korean government has taken steps to regulate the dog meat industry.
In 2018, South Korea’s Constitutional Court upheld a ban on the dog meat trade, although this measure did not fully address the issue as personal consumption is still permitted. The reform they are currently promoting plans to end the consumption of dog meat entirely by 2027.
This story was originally published in Spanish in Cultura Colectiva
