In a confirmation hearing at the National Assembly on Monday, Agriculture Minister nominee Song Mi-ryung voiced her strong support for a proposed bill that aims to eventually prohibit the consumption of dog meat in South Korea.
When questioned about her stance on the legislation, Song unequivocally expressed her support, stating, “Certainly.”
Despite endorsing the bill, Song emphasized that government compensation for individuals involved in the dog meat industry should not be mandatory.
“While I am committed to providing as much reasonable support as possible, it is too much to make such compensations mandatory,” Song asserted during the confirmation hearing.
The proposed bill primarily focuses on banning the raising and slaughtering of dogs for consumption. South Korea plans to implement the measure starting in 2027, following a three-year grace period.
Government statistics reveal the presence of approximately 1,150 dog farms, 34 butchering businesses, 219 distributors, and around 1,600 restaurants that serve dishes made with dog meat. The legislation represents a significant step toward addressing concerns surrounding the dog meat industry in the country.
