South Korea adopted its first Animal Protection Law in 1991. This law, defined in broad terms, outlines the responsibilities of animal caretakers and owners to provide proper food, housing, and care for their animals. It also prohibited animal cruelty and inhumane slaughter, using very general language, and described procedures for handling abandoned animals. Though a step in the right direction, its language was so vague and its punitive measures so minimal that it was largely unenforceable. 

In 2007, the government amended the existing law, imposing harsher penalties for animal abuse and adding clearer definitions of animal care, management, and cruelty. The revised law introduced legislation aimed at increasing pet owner responsibility, improving conditions for animals sold by retailers, and reducing the number of abandoned animals. Additionally, it further defined what constitutes humane slaughter and transportation of livestock, restricted animal experimentation, and established provisions for government-run animal protection facilities. 

Further changes followed in 2011. These amendments established a national animal welfare committee, coordinated animal protection committees within shelters, and required annual reports on animal welfare conditions. It stipulated that all animal testing should be approved by an ethics committee, and it required humane methods to be used in the transportation and euthanasia of animals. The law also imposed even greater punishment for violations of animal protection laws

Historic Law Passed Banning Dog Meat Trade 

Finally, in 2024, the Korean Parliament passed a bill banning the farming of dogs and the sale of dog meat. The Special Act to ban dog meat began a three-year phaseout, ending legal dog farming and the sale of dog meat by 2027. There are still many logistical hurdles to clear, such as rehoming the almost half-million dogs currently left in dog-meat farms.

The law provides compensation for farmers and businesses, offering additional financial incentives for those who transition before the three-year grace period ends in February 2027. Unfortunately, this means dogs will continue to suffer for another three years. Those who slaughter dogs for meat face up to three years in prison or a fine of 30 million won (about $22,000), while breeding or selling dog meat can result in up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 20 million won (about $15,000). Some farmers and supporters continue to challenge the ruling, arguing it is unconstitutional and infringes on personal freedoms. Despite these challenges, there is optimism about the transition and its positive impact on animal welfare in Korea.

Animal Protection Law

Reasons for Revision/Main Points | 1991 Version | 2007 Version | Related Laws