Bear farming for bile extraction banned in Korea
- In a significant stride towards animal welfare, Korea has introduced a comprehensive ban on bear farming, effective today.
- Under the new regulations, bear farming for any purpose, including bile extraction, is strictly prohibited.
- Humane euthanasia of farmed bears is now permitted only under stringent conditions, such as severe illness or disease transmission risk.
Korea Bans Bear Farming, Tightens Animal Protection Laws
In a significant stride towards animal welfare, Korea has introduced a comprehensive ban on bear farming, effective today. The revised Wildlife Protection and Management Act, announced by the Ministry of Environment, heralds a new era for the nation’s bears and other wildlife.
Under the new regulations, bear farming for any purpose, including bile extraction, is strictly prohibited. Existing farmed bears can only be kept in designated facilities like conservation institutions, bear protection centers, or zoos. Current bear farms must comply by the end of the year.
Humane euthanasia of farmed bears is now permitted only under stringent conditions, such as severe illness or disease transmission risk. Violations will incur fines ranging from 1 million won ($750) for a first offense to 2 million won for a third offense.
Previously, bears often suffered inhumane treatment, including conscious slaughter using muscle relaxants or suffocation. The government now entrusts bear protection facilities to organizations like the National Park Service, setting facility and staffing standards for private operators.
Critics argue that bear farming violation penalties are lenient compared to other animal protection laws. Choi Tae-gyu, head of Project Moon Bear, notes that current penalties for animal cruelty carry harsher penalties, up to three years in prison and 30 million won fines.
The amended law also addresses urban wildlife issues, expanding support for damage prevention facilities in areas affected by birds such as crows and feral pigeons. Municipalities can now restrict or ban feeding animals deemed pests, with fines escalating up to 1 million won for repeated offenses.
Director Kim Tae-oh of the Nature Conservation Bureau at the Ministry of Environment, says, "This amendment marks the beginning of the end for bear farming. We’ll collaborate with stakeholders and local governments to ensure implementation and minimize urban wildlife damage."