How many dogs were adopted or sent to shelters before the ban?

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Hundreds of thousands of dogs likely consumed as adoption and shelter numbers remain low ahead of South Korea's meat ban

Data indicates that by February, only 623 dogs had been adopted and just under 500 were sent to shelters, suggesting that the vast majority of dogs previously raised for consumption were likely killed and consumed as South Korea's landmark ban on the dog meat trade approaches. This situation arises as the industry rapidly diminishes in anticipation of the law's enforcement next February, which will prohibit the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for food, with violators facing prison sentences of up to three years.
Low Adoption and Shelter Figures Revealed

Official figures obtained by a lawmaker show a stark reality for dogs formerly part of the meat industry. As of February, a mere 623 dogs had found new homes through adoption programs, and an additional 498 were placed in shelters. These numbers represent a small fraction of the hundreds of thousands of dogs that were once part of this trade.
Industry Decline and Government Incentives

The South Korean government had estimated that between 400,000 and 450,000 dogs were being raised for meat in 2024. However, the agriculture ministry now estimates that only around 20,000 remain on farms. To facilitate this transition, the government offered compensation of up to 600,000 won (approximately $390) per dog to farmers for their animals. However, the whereabouts of these compensated dogs were not systematically tracked by the ministry.
Animal Welfare Groups Cite Consumption as Likely Fate

Animal welfare organizations and former farmers believe that most of the dogs not accounted for through adoption or shelters were likely killed. Representatives from animal rights groups, such as CARE, have stated they have not seen evidence of large-scale rescue campaigns or adoption drives for dogs from former meat farms. Historically, dogs from these farms were often larger breeds, less suited for domestic pet ownership in South Korea, where smaller breeds are typically preferred for apartment living.
Legal Ambiguities and Industry Transition Challenges

For decades, dogs were not legally classified as livestock in South Korea, unlike cattle or pigs, meaning the industry operated without regulations for humane husbandry and slaughter. Animal rights activists report that dogs were often subjected to inhumane methods, including electrocution and beating. While approximately 82 percent of dog farms, totaling 1,265, had applied to cease operations by May, former farmers face challenges in transitioning to other agricultural businesses due to lengthy government licensing procedures.

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How many dogs were adopted or sent to shelters before the ban?

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