The emergence of significant social and political changes in South Korea related to the consumption of dog meat raises important questions about the treatment of animals and the evolution of mentalities.
The South Korean government’s announcement that it will financially compensate dog breeders to encourage them to cease their activities before the ban on dog meat in 2027 is a gesture that reflects a major shift in the perception of this age-old practice.
Once deeply rooted in South Korean culture, dog meat consumption has declined in recent years, particularly with the increase in pet ownership. This change in mentality has been crystallized in the recent ban on the breeding, slaughtering and marketing of dogs for consumption.
The figures put forward by animal rights activists are telling: up to one million dogs were slaughtered each year for their meat. Today, the milestone of 466,000 dogs bred for this purpose marks the beginning of a transition to a future where animal abuse for food becomes morally unacceptable.
The government’s measure to provide financial compensation to breeders to end their activities demonstrates a desire for a smooth transition to a new model. Amounts ranging from 225,000 to 600,000 won per dog are offered, and substantial funds are allocated to help those in this sector reorient themselves professionally.
But beyond the economic aspect, there is the question of ethics and respect for animals. Dog breeders have expressed their discontent, arguing that the ban infringes on their individual freedoms. However, animal protection and the promotion of animal welfare are major societal issues that sometimes require radical measures to change mentalities.
The support of President Yoon Suk Yeol and the First Lady, who are strong advocates for animal rights, reinforces the importance of this transition. The public’s awareness of animal suffering and the inconsistency of consuming pets while loving them reveals a collective awareness that cannot be ignored.
Ultimately, the ban on dog meat in South Korea represents a major turning point in the country’s history, embodying a profound change in the way society views its relationship with animals. This bold move paves the way for a broader reflection on our interactions with the animal kingdom and the need to implement policies that respect the life of every living being on earth.