Dog meat to stop in South Korea - 17th January 2024

The government in South Korea has just decided to ban dog meat. From 2027, people won't be able to sell, kill or keep dogs for meat. If they do, they could be sent to prison for three years. Or they'll have to pay a fine of $23,000.

According to government information, about 1,000 dog farms exist in the country. Dog meat dishes can be bought in around 1,600 restaurants.

The government's decision hasn't been easy. Now, animal lovers are pleased with the result, but dog meat farmers and sellers are upset. To help, dog meat businesses will receive government money. However, for many people, they feel too old to change. They also feel angry because eating dog meat is part of their culture. Some South Koreans believe it's their right to choose their own food too.

In fact, very few people in the country now eat dog meat. They prefer to keep dogs as pets.

Across Asia, dog meat's been eaten for centuries. Nowadays, it's banned in Taiwan, Hong Kong, the Philippines and other countries. JungAh Chae's the director of a society which protects animals, and she said South Korea can now have a "dog-friendly future."