South Korea, one of the representative countries known for consuming dog meat, is experiencing a gradual decline in its consumption, and it is expected to be eradicated soon as there is no influx of new consumers. However, the cultural aspect of dog meat consumption is strong as it is deeply rooted in social traditions, and there is inadequate agreement on banning it legally. This article examines the laws related to dog meat and how it is currently managed. It also scrutinizes the animal welfare and food safety aspects of the process of dog meat breeding and distribution. The current legal management system for dog meat is inadequate, which poses risks in terms of food safety. In addition, the dogs used for food consumption are exposed to coarse environments from an animal welfare perspective. Until dog meat consumption is naturally eradicated, establishing a temporary hygiene management system to ensure food safety and improve animal welfare could be one solution.

• Yebin Han(College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University)
• Sookyung Park(College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University)
• Hyojin Song(College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University)
• NongHoon Choe(College of Veterinary Medicine, Konkuk University) Corresponding author