7,600 Dogs Still Trapped on South Korean Meat Farms as Animal Groups Race to Rescue Them

South Korea has made significant progress toward ending its dog meat industry, but thousands of dogs remain on farms as animal welfare organizations work to help them find safety before the nationwide ban takes full effect.

According to reports, approximately 7,600 dogs are still being kept at 198 dog meat farms across the country. When the ban was approved in 2024, around 468,000 dogs were reportedly held at 1,537 facilities.

The South Korean government has set February 7, 2027, as the deadline for fully ending the industry. Authorities are working to close the remaining farms and prepare for the care of dogs that will still need shelter and support.

Animal rescue groups are also working to give the animals a chance at a different life. Humane World for Animals recently helped rescue more than 70 dogs from a farm in Gangjin, South Korea. Some of the rescued dogs have begun their journey to rehabilitation centers in the United States and Canada, where they will receive care before being placed for adoption.

Although the number of operating farms has dropped dramatically, the fate of the remaining dogs remains an important concern as the deadline approaches. Their rescue and rehabilitation will require continued cooperation between authorities, animal welfare groups and local communities.

Source: New York Post · Humane World for Animals