Due to the actions of animal lovers and activists, South Korea has recently passed an incredibly impactful bill that will ban the sale, consumption, and farming of dogs for their meat.

South Korea has had a dynamic and challenging history regarding their consumption of and view of dog meat. Unfortunately, the canines we often call friends have not always been viewed the same way in South Korea. However, in recent years (and due to the support of younger generations), this countries relationship with dogs is beginning to change. The actions of animal lovers and activists has driven the South Korean government to make a groundbreaking decision for the country: banning the sale, consumption, and farming of dog meat.

As one might imagine, the farming of dogs is in no way ethical. Not only is the practice morally corrupt on its own, the conditions these dogs endure are deplorable. Many farmers treat these dogs terribly, give them little to no room, and keep them in unsanitary and unclean facilities. Little to no animal rights regulations were present for dog farming in South Korea, meaning these canines had no legal protection against mistreatment.

Historically, the consumption of dogs in South Korea was not uncommon. This was largely based on centuries old beliefs that eating dog meat carries health benefits as well as the fact that dogs were once much more abundant than other sources of meat, such as cows. As time has passed, South Korea’s younger generations have become more and more opposed to the consumption and farming of dogs. Nevertheless, the practice of farming dogs has continued in no small way, until now.

Due to the relentless actions taken by those opposing such cruelty, the South Korean government has now passed a bill to ban the sale, consumption, and farming of dogs. Raised voices in support of the bill, advocacy from government officials, and the outspoken voices of South Korean dog owners, a group that has been growing exponentially, swayed the government to pass the bill. This bill will take effect in 2027 and marks a groundbreaking moment in the animal rights community. This is a pleasantly surprising development for many as South Korea went from a country with no regulations at all regarding the farming of dogs, to completely banning its practice.

This incredible story goes to show the impact animal rights groups can have on the lives of our beloved furry friends. Without the support of animal lovers and dog owners across South Korea, this bill may have never come to pass. It is due to their continued perseverance that a monumental bill has been passed; one that many believed would never happen in their lifetime. With enough passion, planning, and perseverance we can change the world and save the lives of many animals who share it with us. We don’t need to be experts. We just need to start with our own strengths and voices.

Image Credit: Associated Press