South Korea prepares for nationwide dog meat ban in 2027

South Korea is preparing for a nationwide ban on the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for human consumption, set to take full effect in February 2027. As the deadline approaches, many citizens are visiting restaurants to consume traditional dishes like Bosintang, a dog meat stew, for the final time during the summer heat waves.

In Seongnam’s Moran Market, a historically significant hub for the trade, the industry is already in transition. Many vendors have pivoted to alternative menu items, such as black goat stew, to adapt to changing social attitudes and the upcoming prohibition. While the shift is viewed as aligning with modern national identity, some long-standing business owners note the bittersweet nature of the transition for elderly patrons.

The legislative overhaul, passed by the South Korean parliament in January 2024, includes a three-year grace period to allow for industry adjustment. Government data indicates that more than 5,600 businesses will be affected by the ban. Although the government has pledged support for impacted farmers and distributors, many dog farms have already ceased operations ahead of the official enforcement date.