South Korea Dog Meat Phase-Out
Recent Developments
012025-12-21: South Korean government data reported 1,204 of 1,537 registered dog farms had closed, or about 78%, leaving 333 farms still operating.
022026-08-14: Reuters reported that the nationwide ban on breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for meat remains scheduled to take full effect in February 2027.
032025-06-25: BBC reported that the phase-out law gives farmers until February 2027 to close businesses and sell remaining dogs.
Interventions
- Government phase-out and compensation program for registered dog farms during the grace period.
- Relocation, rescue, and shelter efforts by animal welfare groups and local authorities for surrendered dogs during the transition.
What Works
- A legally enforced phase-out with a fixed deadline appears effective: official data show rapid closure of farms after the law took effect.
- Financial transition support and registered surrender/closure plans help accelerate shutdowns while reducing the number of dogs left in confinement.
How to Help
- Donate to animal welfare organizations assisting with dog rescue, rehoming, and farm shutdown support.
- Support shelters and sanctuaries taking in surrendered dogs during the phase-out period.
- Advocate for continued enforcement of the 2027 ban and humane transition funding.
Make an Impact
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Verified Organizations
Organizations Helping(15)
Korean K9 Rescue identifies and helps shut down slaughterhouses and puppy mills, then rescues dogs, provides rehabilitation and veterinary care, and rehomes them through adoption and foster networks. The organization also works with partners on shutdowns and publicizes the transition away from dog meat following South Korea's 2024 ban.
KARA works on advocacy, public education, and coalition-building inside South Korea to support legislative and social change against dog meat consumption. It has partnered with international groups on closures and campaigns that pressure policymakers and the public to reject the trade.
KAWA supports campaigns and partnerships aimed at closing dog meat facilities, promoting welfare reforms, and strengthening public and governmental support for ending the dog meat industry. It works alongside other organizations to advance both rescue outcomes and policy change.
Uses undercover investigations, legislative advocacy, and public-awareness campaigns to end the dog meat trade. The organization also works with its South Korean sister organization, Animal Liberation Wave, and says it will continue working with the South Korean government to ensure the phase-out is completed by 2027.
