The Korean Dog Meat Association Files Constitutional Appeal Against Dog Meat Ban Law... "Violation of the People's Freedom to Eat"

Workers' 'Freedom of Occupational Choice' Violated

On the 26th, the Korea Dog Meat Association filed a constitutional complaint and a request for suspension of enforcement, claiming that the "Special Act on the Termination of Breeding, Slaughtering, and Distribution of Dogs for Food Purposes" (Dog Meat Prohibition Act) is unconstitutional.

President Ju Young-bong (right) of the Korea Dog Meat Association and lawyer Lee Jin-sung are heading to the civil service office to submit a constitutional complaint petition against the dog meat ban law.
[Image source=Yonhap News]

On the same day, the Dog Meat Association held a press conference in front of the Constitutional Court in Jongno-gu, Seoul, stating, "The Dog Meat Prohibition Act infringes on the people's freedom to choose their food and violates the freedom of occupation and property rights of those working in related industries."

They added, "The National Assembly and the government enacted the Dog Meat Prohibition Act without any prior discussion, preparation, or promises of compensation, and are forcing us to stop within three years," and criticized, "It has been almost 50 days since the law was promulgated, but the government has not presented any compensation or support standards, leaving us at risk of being driven onto the streets."

The law prohibits breeding, propagating, or slaughtering dogs for food purposes, as well as distributing or selling foods cooked or processed using dogs or dog-derived ingredients. Those who slaughter dogs for food purposes face up to three years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won, and those who breed, propagate, or distribute face up to two years in prison or a fine of up to 20 million won. The penalty provisions will take effect in 2027, three years after the law's promulgation.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.