South Korea Says “Goodbye” to Dog Meat Trade

Intermediate | July 1, 2025

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A Big Change for South Korea

The New Law

Did you hear the news? South Korea is making a really big change. This article explores the impact of the South Korea dog meat ban, a significant shift in the country’s cultural and legal landscape. By 2027, it will be against the law to kill or sell dogs for meat there. This is a huge step that ends a practice that has been part of the country’s history for centuries.

Transition Period

The new law was actually passed back in January 2024, but there’s a three-year period to help everyone adjust. This means farmers who raise dogs for meat and the restaurants that sell it have time to find new ways to make a living. It’s a big undertaking to change a whole industry.

Why the Ban?

Changing Attitudes

So, why is this happening now? Well, attitudes in South Korea have been changing a lot. More and more people, especially younger generations, see dogs as pets and companions, like part of the family. Eating dog meat has become less popular, with surveys showing that fewer people are trying it.

Activism and Global Pressure

Also, animal welfare groups both inside and outside South Korea have worked for a long time to stop the dog meat trade because of concerns about how the dogs are treated. International attention has also played a role over the years, putting pressure on the country.

What Happens Next?

The South Korea Dog Meat Ban in Action

This ban is great news for animal lovers, but it’s also creating challenges. There are still many thousands of dogs on farms, and figuring out what happens to them is a big concern.

Support and Uncertainty

The government is offering some support and compensation to farmers who close their businesses. However, some farmers feel uncertain about their future and the compensation offered.

Rescue Efforts

Animal rescue groups are also working hard, but they are worried about finding homes for all the dogs. It’s a complicated situation, and everyone is trying to navigate these changes before the 2027 deadline arrives.

Vocabulary

Ban (noun): An official rule that says something is not allowed.
*Example: “The government put a ban on smoking in restaurants.”
Trade (noun): The activity of buying and selling goods or services.
*Example: “The international trade of coffee is a big business.”
Century (noun): A period of one hundred years.
*Example: “This building is over a century old.”
Adjust (verb): To change something slightly so it works better or is more suitable; to get used to a new situation.
*Example: “It took me a few weeks to adjust to living in a new city.”
Undertaking (noun): A task or project that is important or difficult.
*Example: “Building the new bridge was a massive undertaking.”
Attitude (noun): The way you think or feel about something.
*Example: “She has a very positive attitude towards her work.”
Companion (noun): A person or animal you spend time with.
*Example: “My dog is a wonderful companion.”
Welfare (noun): The health, happiness, and fortunes of a person or group.
*Example: “The animal welfare organization helps injured animals.”
Concern (noun): A feeling of worry about something.
*Example: “There is growing concern about climate change.”
Compensation (noun): Money that is paid to someone because they have suffered injury or loss.
*Example: “He received compensation for the damage to his car.”

Discussion Questions (About the Article)

When will the ban on killing and selling dogs for meat in South Korea be fully active?
What are some reasons mentioned for why South Korea banned the dog meat trade?
How are dog farmers and restaurant owners affected by this new law?
What are some worries about the dogs currently on farms?
Besides the law, what else is changing in South Korea regarding how people see dogs?

Discussion Questions (About the Topic)

What do you think about countries banning certain traditional practices?
How do cultural traditions change over time?
What responsibilities do you think governments have towards both people and animals?
How does the way people see animals differ in different parts of the world?
What are some ways people can help animals in need?

Related Idiom

“In limbo”
Meaning: In an uncertain state, waiting for a decision or resolution.
Example: The future of the remaining dogs is currently “in limbo.”

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This article was inspired by: BBC, June 27, 2025