What is the fate of the estimated 400,000 to 450,000 dogs previously bred for meat?

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Fate of Dogs Bred for Meat in South Korea Remains Unclear Amidst Industry Ban

The fate of an estimated 400,000 to 450,000 dogs previously bred for meat in South Korea remains largely unaccounted for as the country prepares to implement a landmark ban on the dog meat industry. While a significant number of dog farms have applied to close down, official figures indicate a minimal number of adoptions or transfers to shelters, leading animal welfare groups and former farmers to believe that the majority of these dogs were likely killed and consumed prior to the ban's full enforcement.
Discrepancy Between Farm Closures and Dog Rehoming

As of May, a substantial 1,265 dog farms, representing approximately 82 percent of the total, had applied to cease operations in anticipation of the ban taking effect next February. However, data compiled by a lawmaker reveals that by February, only 623 dogs had been officially adopted, with just under 500 being sent to shelters. This stark contrast suggests that the vast majority of dogs from these farms did not enter formal rehoming channels.
Likelihood of Dogs Being Eaten

Former dog farmers and animal welfare organisations widely suspect that the majority of the remaining dogs were killed. A former dog farmer, who also serves as a Christian pastor, acknowledged that the unaccounted-for canines had likely "already been eaten." This assertion is supported by the absence of any significant adoption campaigns or large-scale rehoming efforts by animal rights groups, which would typically be aware of such initiatives.
Limited Resources for Animal Welfare Groups

South Korea's animal welfare organisations are reportedly facing resource limitations that hinder their ability to rescue and rehome a larger number of dogs. Groups like CARE, which has a history of rescuing farmed dogs, primarily for overseas rehoming due to a domestic preference for smaller breeds, are unable to absorb the sheer volume of animals from the closing farms. The dogs typically raised for meat, such as the Nureongi breed, are often larger and less suited for urban apartment living prevalent in South Korea.

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What is the fate of the estimated 400,000 to 450,000 dogs previously bred for meat?

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