Could South Korea finally take dog meat off the menu?

THOSE with an adventurous palate may have heard of South Korea’s most popular foods.

There’s kimchi, which is spicy fermented cabbage, and bulgogi, barbecued beef or pork. But there’s one dish that has never won over Westerners: gaegogi – dog meat.

Now, South Korea’s pet-loving president has raised the prospect of banning the meat.

A million dogs are believed to be eaten in the country each year – but popularity is falling as more South Koreans choose to keep the animals as pets.

Meanwhile, pressure from animal rights activists and younger generations has been rising.

Yesterday, president Moon Jae-in asked prime minister Kim Boo-kyum during a weekly meeting: ‘Hasn’t the time come to prudently consider prohibiting dog meat consumption?’

It is the first time that Mr Moon has raised the idea of a ban. Known for his love of animals, he keeps several dogs at the presidential compound, including one he rescued after taking office.

The ban may also boost his popularity – several presidential hopefuls have vowed to outlaw dog meat in recent weeks.