South Korean Dog Farmers Threaten Retaliation
Credit: Unsplash
Tension rises as dog farmers in Seoul vow to release two million canines in protest against the proposed ban, highlighting the complex intersection of tradition, livelihoods, and evolving public sentiment.
The contentious debate surrounding the proposed ban on dog meat in South Korea has taken a dramatic turn, as dog farmers, fearing the loss of their livelihoods, have issued a stark warning. The Korea Dog Meat Farmers’ Association, led by Joo Young-bong, has threatened to release two million canines onto the streets of Seoul if the government proceeds with the ban scheduled for 2027.
Arguing that banning dog meat would deprive them of their means of living, the farmers have expressed outrage over what they perceive as an unjust targeting of their industry. Joo Young-bong, Head of the Association, stated, “Eating dog meat cannot be a crime like trafficking drugs or prostitution. Have you ever heard of anyone whose dog meat consumption caused harm to others?”
In response to the proposed ban, the South Korean government has assured financial assistance to aid farmers in transitioning away from the dog meat trade. The ban has gained global support from animal rights organizations. Humane Society International praised the move as a bold step toward ending the suffering of nearly one million dogs raised yearly for human consumption.
As South Korea moves to ban eating dog meat, many of those involved in the centuries-old controversial practice are fighting to keep it legal. https://t.co/YFFA0kGnWJ
— The Japan Times (@japantimes) November 27, 2023
The political landscape reflects the division over the issue, with the ruling conservative People Power Party proposing a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment or fines of 50 million won for individuals engaged in the dog meat trade. On the other hand, the liberal Democratic Party of Korea suggests three-year jail sentences and fines reaching up to 30 million won.
Despite a shift in public sentiment, with nearly two-thirds of respondents opposing dog meat consumption according to a Gallup Korea poll, dog farmers are devastated by the potential consequences. Lee Kyeong-sig, a dog farmer with 12 years of experience, expressed despair, saying, “If I have to close down, with the financial condition I’m in, there really is no answer to what I can do.”
The Korean Association of Edible Dogs warns that the impact of the ban may be more extensive than anticipated, affecting 3,500 farms, raising 1.5 million dogs, and 3,000 restaurants—almost twice the numbers stated by officials.
As South Korea grapples with this complex issue, the world watches closely, awaiting the outcome of a decision that could mark a pivotal moment in the nation’s history regarding animal welfare and cultural practices.
