A Bok Nal celebration in South Korea unlike any other

The South Korean government is taking significant steps towards ending the dog meat industry in the country by establishing guidelines to phase out dog meat farms, slaughterhouses, and restaurants by February 2027. This move comes as a response to growing public outcry and international pressure to put an end to the controversial practice of consuming dog meat.

In order to facilitate the transition away from the dog meat industry, the government has set a deadline of August 5 for dog meat farms, slaughterhouses, and restaurants to submit closure implementation plans. These plans will be reviewed by the government to determine whether financial support will be provided to help these establishments either close down or transition to a new business. By September, the government is expected to publish a comprehensive plan outlining the details of how it intends to phase out the estimated 1,507 dog meat farms, 163 dog slaughterhouses, and 2,276 dog meat restaurants in the country.

HSI/Korea’s Models for Change program has been instrumental in providing a blueprint for these transitions. Since 2015, the program has worked with 18 dog meat farmers, offering one-off grants to assist them in transitioning out of the dog meat industry and into other animal-free livelihoods. This initiative aims to support individuals in finding alternative sources of income that are both sustainable and compassionate.

One of the key recommendations put forth by HSI/Korea is for dog farmers to capitalize on the growing interest in plant-based eating by transitioning to crop farming. Instead of converting dog farms to rear other animals such as black goats or pigs, farmers are encouraged to plant crops like vegetables. This shift aligns with the changing consumer preferences in South Korea, where an increasing number of people are adopting vegan lifestyles. A 2021 Statista survey estimates that up to 2.5 million people in South Korea identify as vegan, highlighting the potential for livelihoods that are in line with sustainable and ethical practices.

An example of a successful transition is Mr. Yang, a former dog farmer who has now switched to farming vegetables. By embracing plant-based agriculture, individuals like Mr. Yang are not only contributing to a more sustainable food system but also aligning their livelihoods with the changing demands of the market. This shift towards plant-based farming not only benefits the environment and animal welfare but also opens up new opportunities for farmers to thrive in a changing landscape.

In conclusion, the efforts by the South Korean government to phase out the dog meat industry and support individuals in transitioning to alternative livelihoods mark a significant step towards a more ethical and sustainable future. By embracing plant-based agriculture and aligning with the growing demand for cruelty-free products, former dog farmers have the opportunity to not only improve their own livelihoods but also contribute to a more compassionate society.