South Korea to Enforce Dog Meat Ban Within Six Months

South Korea will enforce a law banning the sale and consumption of dog meat in six months ^[1].

The legislation reflects a shifting cultural landscape where an increasing number of citizens view pets as family members rather than livestock. This transition is creating significant economic distress for traditional vendors and specialty restaurants that have operated for decades.

In Seoul's Dongdaemun Market, the impact is already visible. One dog-meat restaurant, which has operated for 45 years ^[2], is now attempting to pivot its business model by adding goat dishes to the menu to remain viable. The owner, Lee Dokseon, said that the cost of sourcing dog meat has risen to approximately four times the price it was before the law was introduced ^[4].

Lee said that without further increasing the price of dishes, the business cannot generate a profit. He questioned whether the shop would close in the autumn or by the end of the year ^[3].

The supply chain for the industry has already collapsed significantly. More than 80% of dog-meat farms have closed within two and a half years of the law's introduction ^[3].

Despite the looming ban, some customers continue to seek out the meat during traditional periods. A visit to the market on Ponnal, the Korean equivalent of the hottest days of summer, revealed customers who still value the tradition ^[5]. One customer said that the meat has a high protein content and a distinct quality that differs from other meats ^[1].

As the six-month countdown begins, the government's focus remains on ending the practice entirely, leaving long-term business owners to either adapt their menus or shut down permanently.