South Korea's parliament has passed a bill banning the consumption, sale, marketing and production of dog meat. According to the new act - violators will be punished with a maximum of two years imprisonment or a fine of Rs. 19 lakhs. The law will come into effect from 2027 after a three-year grace period. Animal lovers have welcomed the decision of marking the end of a centuries-old practice. The government move reflects a societal shift toward animal welfare, as more Koreans now consider dogs as family members.
The older generation of South Koreans used to appreciate the presence of dog meat in their dishes. The dog meat dish is called 'Boshintang'. However, this dish is no longer enjoyed by the youth of South Korea.
In the 1980s, the government had announced they would ban dog meat. But it failed in practice. Current President Yoon Suk-Yeol and First Lady Kim Keon-hee are known to be animal lovers. As a mother of six children, she loves dogs and other animals. The First Lady called for an end to the centurions-old practice of eating dog meat.
According to the new law, eating dog meat is not illegal. In a recent poll, 8% of people said they had eaten dog meat in the past 12 months. That's up from 27 percent in 2015. According to government estimates, there are 1,600 dog restaurants and 1,150 dog farms in the country in 2023. They will also have to submit a plan to local authorities on how they plan to close their businesses. However, the government has said that it will stand by them. But, no compensation was announced.
The consumption of dog meat has a long and controversial history in South Korea. It's important to note that views on this practice vary widely, and there are ongoing debates within the country about its ethical and cultural implications.
Ancient Roots of ‘Boshintang’:
Dog meat consumption in Korea dates back to ancient times, with some historical records suggesting it was consumed for medicinal and nutritional purposes. In certain Korean cultures, dog meat was historically consumed during the summer months, believed to help combat the heat and boost stamina.
It's important to approach discussions about dog meat consumption with cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the diverse perspectives within South Korea. The issue is complex, involving cultural traditions, changing attitudes, and ethical considerations. In recent decades, attitudes toward consuming dog meat have shifted, especially among younger generations who view dogs more as pets than as a food source.
Controversy over Legislations on Dog Meat:
South Korea has implemented animal protection laws, and there are regulations against animal cruelty. However, there has been controversy and debate about the enforcement of these laws in relation to the dog meat industry.
Country has faced international criticism and protests from animal rights organizations regarding the treatment of dogs in the meat industry. This has led to increased awareness and discussions within the country about the ethical treatment of animals.
Boknal – Culture Practice & Health Concern:
Boknal refers to three specific days in the lunar calendar considered the hottest days of summer. Traditionally, some people believe that consuming dog meat during Boknal provides health benefits. However, this practice has become increasingly controversial.
Pet Ownership & Changing Perception:
Growing trend of pet ownership in South Korea has contributed to changing perceptions about the treatment of dogs. Many people now see dogs as companions rather than as a source of food.
There is a growing animal rights movement in South Korea, with activists advocating for the humane treatment of animals and an end to the dog meat trade.
Government has taken steps to address concerns related to the dog meat industry, such as issuing guidelines for the transportation and slaughter of animals.
Public opinion is diverse, with some supporting the traditional consumption of dog meat for cultural reasons and others opposing it due to ethical concerns.
