South Korean diners are visiting restaurants to consume dog meat dishes for the final time this summer, as the nation prepares to enforce a total ban on the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for human consumption starting in February 2027.
The Final Summer of Bosintang
The third boknal
—the final of the three hottest days of the summer—carried a distinct sense of finality this year. In South Korea, these days have traditionally been the busiest for restaurants serving Bosintang,
a traditional dog meat stew believed by many to provide stamina against the intense heat. This year, however, the tradition is nearing its end.
In the Moran Market in Seongnam, once recognized as the nation’s most prominent hub for dog meat commerce, the shift is already visible. Many business owners have pivoted to selling black goat stew and other alternative menu items. For those still operating, the customer base has dwindled, consisting primarily of elderly patrons who have consumed the dish for decades.
Legislative Timeline and Enforcement
The practice is being phased out following a legislative overhaul. In January 2024, the South Korean parliament passed a bill to ban the breeding, slaughter, distribution, and sale of dogs for human consumption. The law included a three-year grace period, setting the full enforcement date for February 2027.
According to reports, more than 5,600 businesses are expected to be affected by the upcoming prohibition. While the government has pledged to provide support to farmers, distributors, and restaurant owners impacted by the transition, authorities note that the majority of dog farms have already ceased operations ahead of the deadline.
A Changing Cultural Landscape
The move toward a total ban follows a sharp decline in the popularity of dog meat consumption. Surveys conducted before the 2024 law passed indicated that more than 90% of respondents had no intention of consuming dog meat in the future, while over 80% expressed support for the legislative ban. Additionally, nearly 95% of those surveyed reported that they had not consumed dog meat at all over the preceding year.
The campaign to end the trade gained significant momentum under the administration of Yoon Suk-yeol and his wife, Kim Keon-hee. Proponents of the ban argue that it aligns with evolving societal attitudes and the country’s modern international image.
The Perspective of Longtime Proprietors
For those who have built their livelihoods around the trade, the transition is marked by a mix of resignation and nostalgia. One restaurant owner, who has operated in the industry for 37 years, acknowledged that the ban is appropriate given the current societal climate. However, the owner expressed sadness, noting that many of their regular customers are between 70 and 90 years old and have maintained the tradition for decades.
As of February 2027, individuals found violating the new law will face criminal penalties, including imprisonment and fines. Until then, the remaining establishments continue to serve the traditional stew, marking the final chapter for a dish that has been a part of South Korean summer culture for generations.
