The bill, which is set to go into effect by 2027, outlaws the practice of dogs being sold for their meat.
South Korea has passed a law banning the sale of dog meat. The bill was passed on Tuesday, and it will prevent the breeding, farming and selling of dogs for their meat, which has been in practice in the country for centuries.
According to BBC News, the legislation will go into effect in 2027. Under the new law, consumption of dog meat will not be criminalized. Instead, the legislation focuses on the raising and selling of dogs as food. Under the new law, anyone found guilty of butchering dogs could face up to three years in prison, while those who breed dogs as food or sell dog meat could serve a maximum of two years, or pay up to 30 million won ($22,800) in fines, per NBC News.
The South Korean government is giving dog farmers and restaurants that sell dog meat until 2027 to find a new source of income or transition their business into dog meat-free operations, according to the outlet. The government has also vowed to assist dog meat farmers, butchers and restaurant owners as they close or transition their businesses under the new law, although the exact details of the plan are still being discussed. Per the AP, the country's National Assembly passed the bill by a 208-0 vote. It was also endorsed by the Cabinet Council and is set to be signed by South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol, who has six dogs, is also a supporter of the ban.
Read more at People.