Seoul: Four out of ten dog farms in South Korea have ceased operations since the country enacted a law prohibiting dog meat consumption last year, the agriculture ministry announced on Monday. Of the 1,537 total dog farms in the nation, 623, or 40 percent, have shut down following the implementation of the legislation in August.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs reported that by the end of 2025, it is expected that around 60 percent of dog farms will have closed. The legislation not only bans the breeding, butchering, distributing, and selling of dogs for meat but also includes provisions for subsidies to assist those in the dog meat industry in transitioning to new careers.
The law provides for a three-year grace period, after which violators will face severe penalties. Starting in 2027, individuals found guilty of breaching the law could receive a maximum sentence of two years in prison or a fine up to 30 million won (approximately US$20,583).
An official from the agriculture ministry stated, "We will help all dog farms change or close their businesses by 2027," emphasizing the government's commitment to advancing animal welfare in South Korea.