World News for Students of English

21-08-2026 07:00

South Korea celebrated its last traditional hot summer day before a total nationwide ban on dog meat takes effect in February 2027.

Following a three-year grace period, the breeding, slaughter, and sale of dogs for human consumption will be strictly illegal, and violators will face fines and prison time. Public opinion has shifted dramatically in recent years due to growing pet ownership and concern for animal welfare. A survey showed that over 80 percent of people supported the ban, while almost 95 percent hadn’t eaten dog meat in the past year. At a market near Seoul, most remaining customers ordering traditional dog meat stew are elderly citizens who believe it boosts stamina.

Many businesses are now switching to black goat stew or closing down entirely. Although former merchants acknowledge that stopping the trade is necessary for the country’s international image, many restaurant owners feel sad about losing their loyal, older customers.

Difficult words: grace period (extra time allowed before a new law, rule, or payment officially takes effect), welfare (the health, happiness, and comfortable living conditions of people or animals), stamina (the physical strength and energy to keep doing something difficult for a long time).

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