The introduction of a system to prohibit animal abusers from owning or breeding animals is being concretely considered for the first time in over a decade in South Korea, with multiple legislative proposals currently in the National Assembly.
In South Korea, the 'Animal Abuser Breeding Prohibition System' is gaining traction after more than ten years since its first legislative proposal. Currently, four related bills are presented in the National Assembly, with the Lee Jae-myung government aiming to incorporate this proposal into national agenda policies by next year. There has been ongoing debate regarding the potential restriction of basic rights for citizens, a critical concern that has previously hindered the system's advancement.
On September 9, the National Assembly's Legislative Research Service published a report titled 'Legal Measures to Prevent Reoffending in Animal Abuse,' wherein they suggested that limiting basic rights to prevent recurrent animal abuse could be justified not only for animal welfare but also for the greater community's benefit. The report reflected a notable shift in public perception about the necessity of a breeding prohibition system, addressing gaps in existing laws and referencing both local and international legislative examples to formulate practical application strategies.
Despite legislative efforts in previous sessions of the National Assembly that sought to prevent individuals convicted of animal abuse from owning animals for a specified duration, such as the 2013 and 2016 proposals, none have succeeded in being enacted. The current 22nd National Assembly has four bills aimed at implementing the breeding prohibition system, backed by governmental intention as articulated in comprehensive animal welfare plans established through 2024. The prospect of successful legislation could mark a significant step forward in the animal welfare movement within the country, suggesting a possible legislative shift within the political landscape towards greater protection for animals.
