South Korea is poised to bid farewell to a controversial culinary practice with the government set to prohibit the breeding, slaughtering, and sale of dogs for consumption starting 2027. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Jan. 11 (Korea Bizwire) – South Korea is poised to bid farewell to a controversial culinary practice with the government set to prohibit the breeding, slaughtering, and sale of dogs for consumption starting 2027. This move puts an end to a debate that has spanned half a century.
Bosintang, literally translating to a soup that replenishes the body’s nutrients, is more commonly known as a dog meat soup. Dog meat has been a part of Korean cuisine since the Joseon Dynasty, serving as a vital source of nutrition when other meats were scarce.
The term bosintang originated during the administration of President Syngman Rhee. Initially known by more straightforward names like ‘dog meat soup’ and ‘dog stew,’ the dish eventually adopted euphemisms such as bosintang, boyangtang (invigorating soup), yeongyangtang (nutritious soup), and sacheoltang (seasonal soup).
Bosintang was a traditional favorite, especially on Boknal, the hottest days of summer. While in the 1990s, ‘Boknal equals bosintang’ was a common saying, this has since shifted to ‘Boknal equals samgyetang’ (ginseng chicken soup). During Boknal, bosintang restaurants would be bustling with people looking for a health boost. Even those who didn’t regularly consume dog meat would make an exception on these days.
However, bosintang gradually became a subject of intense debate. As pet ownership increased in South Korea, perceptions began to change, and generational divides became evident. Office lunch menus on Boknal often led to conflicts between older and younger employees.
Western criticism also played a role in shifting attitudes. A notable incident occurred in 2001 when French actress Brigitte Bardot labeled Koreans who eat dog meat as “barbarians.” Her blunt remarks angered many in South Korea but also fueled the dog meat debate.
The presence of pets in the Blue House (the presidential residence) further diminished bosintang’s acceptance. Former President Moon Jae-in, a dog owner himself, lived in the official residence with his pets. In September 2021, he suggested to then-Prime Minister Kim Boo-kyum that it might be time to seriously consider a ban on dog meat consumption.
The momentum for the ban gained further speed with the election of President Yoon Suk-yeol, also a dog owner. The bipartisan support for the new legislation reflects a unified stance across political lines.
As bosintang disappears into history, the focus shifts to supporting the livelihoods of dog breeders and bosintang restaurant owners. It’s estimated that there are over 1,600 such restaurants in South Korea, underscoring the need for comprehensive transition plans for these businesses.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
