South Korea Steps Up Measures for Early Closure of Remaining Dog Meat Farms, with 82% Closed Ahead of 2027 Total Ban

Sejong, 15 May 2026 — On 14 May 2026, the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (MAFRA) of the Republic of Korea announced intensive measures to encourage the early closure of remaining dog meat farms and prevent illegal breeding and the occurrence of remaining dogs. To this end, the Ministry will carry out special on-site inspections and follow-up management during this summer period (June to August), ahead of the full enforcement of the ban on dog meat consumption. Article 5 of the Special Act on the Termination of Breeding, Slaughter, and Distribution of Dogs for Consumption is scheduled to take effect from 7 February 2027.   

Special inspections will be conducted not only for farms that have yet to close, but also for those that have already shut down, in order to detect any new or illegal breeding activities. Where violations are identified, strict measures will be taken, including the recovery of closure support payments. In addition, farms ineligible for support payments will also be subject to intensive monitoring through unannounced inspections to detect any increase in illegal breeding. Permanent monitoring will also be implemented via reports from local governments, village head associations, and local residents. Where violations are confirmed, measures will be taken in accordance with relevant laws and regulations.  

Since the enforcement of the Special Act on 7 August 2024, the closure of dog meat farms has remained on track. As of May 2026, approximately 82% (1,265) of all dog breeding farms (1,537) have already ceased their operations, with 272 farms remaining.   

Furthermore, from September this year, the Ministry will cooperate with local governments to implement corrective measures—as stipulated under the Special Act and other relevant legislation—against farms that have failed to comply with their implementation plans for business closure or conversion. If these measures are not complied with, facility closure orders will be issued.  

The Ministry will also carry out on-site publicity activities and provide support for business conversion to encourage early closure. Promotional materials explaining the date of enforcement of the law, prohibited acts, and penalty provisions will be distributed to dog meat farms. In addition, farms wishing to transition to other industries will be provided with consulting support, including visits to exemplary farms and group mentoring sessions. The Ministry also plans to continue monitoring, on a quarterly basis, the status of local governments’ support fund execution in preparation for an increase in early closures.