Seoul: Seven out of ten dog farms in South Korea have shut down since the enactment of a law banning dog meat consumption a year ago, the agriculture ministry announced Thursday. Of the 1,537 dog farms present nationwide, 1,072, or 70 percent, have ceased operations since the special bill prohibiting the consumption of dog meat came into effect in August last year, as reported by the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

According to Yonhap News Agency, these closed farms accounted for raising 346,000 dogs, which represents 74 percent of the 468,000 dogs bred for meat across the country. By the conclusion of 2025, it is anticipated that over 75 percent of these farms will have ceased operations.

The ministry attributes the higher-than-expected closure rate to increasing public awareness, perceiving the end of dog meat consumption as a generational responsibility, along with government incentives. The special legislation prohibits the breeding, slaughtering, distribution, and sale of dogs for meat, and includes provisions for subsidies to aid individuals in the dog meat industry transition to different occupations.

Following a three-year grace period, commencing in 2027, those found in violation of the law could face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won (approximately US$21,753).