Dog meat is finally banned in Korea: A tourist reveals what it really tastes like

Dog meat has finally been banned in South Korea.

This annoying centuries-old tradition came to an end with the passing in January of a law banning the breeding and slaughter of dogs on dog farms and the distribution of dog meat. It finally came into force on August 7.

Previously, the industry had seen hundreds of thousands of dogs bred and slaughtered in South Korea each year.

But in recent years, dog meat has been falling out of favor at a rapid rate as dog ownership has skyrocketed. UPI reports.

Efforts to shut down the dog meat industry gained momentum last year when both of South Korea’s main political parties introduced bills to end the practice, backed by high-profile figures including first lady Kim Keon Hee.

The South Korean government is now focusing on compensating the 5,600 dog meat industry companies (including 1,500 farms and 2,200 restaurants and shops) that are on the brink of closure.

The government will compensate for the cost of lost equipment and renovation costs, as well as monetary packages for meat distributors or restaurant owners before the ban fully comes into effect in February 2027.

Dog breeders will also be reimbursed for demolition costs and receive additional monetary compensation, the amounts of which will be determined by the government at a later date. according to the Straits Times.

Those working in the dog breeding sector looking to transition their businesses can also seek state funding to renovate their business premises, as well as state-sponsored services such as consulting and training.

When the law is fully implemented in February 2027, anyone who butchers a dog for meat will face up to three years in prison and a fine of up to $23,000.

Anyone who raises a dog for meat or sells dog meat could also be punished with up to two years in prison or a $15,000 fine.

“The message is clear to the relatively few who still eat dog meat: the end of the dog meat era in South Korea is in sight,” said Sangkyung Lee, director of Humane Society International/Korea’s dog meat campaign.

Still, some dog meat farmers are fighting back.

In March, the Korean Edible Dog Association – which represents breeders of around 1.5 million dogs – filed a constitutional complaint against the government, claiming the move violates the freedom to choose an occupation and the freedom to choose food.

In July, the group also asked the Audit and Inspection Board to investigate an alleged abuse of power to jeopardize the livelihood of dog breeders.

Meanwhile, black goat meat is experiencing a price increase in South Korea as a perceived alternative to dog meat for consumers.

But Melanie Ferguson, a Vancouver-based travel blogger, said she tried a venerable dog stew called Bosintang while it was still available.

“It’s probably the most controversial thing I’ve ever done,” he said. wrote in January, after the bill was first passed.

‘When I lived in South Korea, my old friends used to chide me with an Asian stereotype: “Have you eaten cat yet?” they would ask.

“No, come on,” I replied. “They don’t eat cats here, Koreans eat dogs.” And I did too.

He said he chose Bosintang because it is revered as a source of vitality during harsh winters or on the hottest days of summer.

‘That was the meal I ate in Seoul. Just once, alone, as I couldn’t convince anyone to join me.

‘When it arrived at my table, I have to admit it looked good.

‘After it cooled, I used my metal chopsticks to take my first bite.’

Ferguson described the taste as similar to beef, but with a dog-like smell.

‘It tasted good, too. Like beef, it was tender and fibrous.

‘I could smell dog, but it wasn’t strong, with the scents of the other ingredients in the stew wafting into my nose.

“What’s the problem?” I asked myself. “I ate until I was full.”