The end of the dog soup era: South Korea says goodbye to tradition
South Korea is preparing for a total ban on the sale of dog meat, effective in 2027. For many elderly citizens, this marks a painful farewell to a long-standing culinary tradition.
For decades, the three hottest summer days of the year in South Korea, known as "Boknal," were the busiest time for restaurants serving dog meat. Diners traditionally sought out these dishes to cope with the intense heat. However, last Friday, marking the third hottest day of 2026, signaled the end of an era: this is the final summer before a total ban on the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for human consumption takes full effect in February 2027.
According to a Reuters report, at the Moran market in the city of Seongnam—once a major hub for the dog meat trade—many restaurants have already switched to alternatives like black goat stew. The few customers still ordering "Bosintang" (dog meat stew) are overwhelmingly elderly.
"The place is really empty now. What was once a bustling trade center has turned into a city of old people," said Kim Yong-bok, head of the market's merchants' guild, who has held the position for over 40 years.
The historic law, approved by parliament in early 2024 with the backing of President Yoon Suk-yeol and his wife, established a three-year transition period. Violators face prison sentences and heavy fines. Government data indicates that over 5,600 businesses have been affected, with most breeding farms already closed. These changes reflect a rise in pet adoption and a shift in attitudes toward animal welfare; a survey conducted prior to the law's passage showed that over 80% of the public supported the ban.
Lee Kang-chun, a restaurant owner with 37 years of experience, has mixed feelings. He acknowledges that ending dog meat consumption is important for the country's global image, but finds it difficult to witness the disappointment of his elderly patrons.
"When I see people in their 80s and 90s making the long journey and leaving because there is no dog meat left, it brings me to tears," admitted Lee, who continues to serve the dish for loyal customers despite meager profits.
For many, it is a painful farewell. 69-year-old Yoo Jin-sam, who has eaten the stew since his youth, expressed disappointment but accepted the decree. Others are more pragmatic; 71-year-old Kim Jin-seok noted that he accepts the change calmly and is ready to eat something else.
