South Korea's final summer for dog meat before 2027 consumption ban

South Korea is entering its final summer season for dog meat consumption as a nationwide ban is set to take effect in February 2027. The legislation, passed in January 2024, prohibits the breeding, slaughter, distribution, and sale of dogs for human consumption, allowing a three-year grace period for affected businesses and breeders to adapt.

The traditional dish of 'boshintang,' a soup made with dog meat and often consumed during hot weather for its supposed vigorizing properties, will disappear from menus. This culinary tradition has seen a significant decline in popularity among South Koreans, with a pre-ban survey indicating that 80% of the population favored the prohibition.

Approximately 6,000 businesses are impacted by the new law. Some are transitioning to other meats like goat or lamb, while others face closure. This farewell to a controversial tradition coincides with an extreme heatwave gripping South Korea, with temperatures reaching a record 42.5 degrees Celsius on August 2nd, prompting meteorological services to advise against outdoor activities.