From Soup to Showdown: Dog Meat Ban Triggers Compensation Clash in South Korea

South Korea's recent ban on dog meat consumption, lauded by animal rights groups, has ignited tensions with the Dog Meat Federation, representing farmers and restaurant owners seeking compensation. The federation demands $1,500 per dog, equivalent to five years' profit, alongside reimbursement for facilities and a 10-year grace period. The government deems the proposed compensation excessive, traditionally covering two years' profits. The newly passed bill imposes a three-year transition period, prohibiting the breeding and selling of dogs for meat, prompting farmers to either sell existing stock or arrange for adoption.

A key contention arises over the industry's scale, with the government reporting 1,150 farms breeding 520,000 dogs, while the federation claims 3,500 farms with 2 million dogs. To resolve such discrepancies, a committee, comprising officials, animal rights groups, and farmers, is set to negotiate compensation details.

Amidst warnings from farmers of releasing dogs if demands go unmet, recalling a previous threat materialized with a protest and arrests in November, the livelihoods of approximately 1,600 dog meat restaurants are also at stake. Some owners express frustration, feeling marginalized in the decision-making process.

Addressing the transition challenges, Seoul Metropolitan Council announces the immediate implementation of a revised ordinance for small business owners, offering financial aid and legal support to assist dog meat farmers and restaurant owners in switching industries.