On July 11, 2026, South Korea's Newsis reported, "Following the enforcement of the Special Act on the Termination of Dog Farming, Slaughter, Distribution, etc., for Food Purposes (Dog Meat Termination Act) in South Korea, related bills are also being prepared in Japan."

The law was enforced in August last year. After a grace period, the breeding, slaughter, distribution, and sale of dogs for food purposes will be completely prohibited starting in February next year. The article cited reports from Japanese media, stating, "The Japan Innovation Party (Nippon Ishin no Kai) is concerned that 'since dog meat can currently be eaten in some Chinese restaurants in Japan, the perception that dogs and cats can be eaten in Japan might spread among foreign tourists,' and is proceeding with the submission of a bill to prohibit the consumption of dog and cat meat."

According to Japanese reports, there are currently at least 50 restaurants, mainly in Tokyo and Osaka, that offer dog meat, and the demand from foreign tourists and foreign workers visiting Japan is said to be the background supporting the operation of these establishments.

The Japan Innovation Party explains that another purpose of this bill is to treat dogs and cats as companion animals and to protect Japan's traditional culture and customs of not eating their meat.

Regarding this article, Korean internet users commented, "There's plenty of other food to eat. Let's stop eating dogs and cats," "There's no need to go out of your way to eat dog meat, is there?" and "I hope such a food culture disappears." On the other hand, there were also comments such as, "Dog meat is good for your body. Don't deprive us of the freedom to eat," "A strange country that is trying to legally ban something valuable in terms of taste and nutrition. Only Japan eats whales, and apparently it doesn't taste good," and "Then why do we eat beef and pork?"

Furthermore, comments like, "It's the Chinese who eat the most dog meat in the world," and "Who would bother going to Japan to eat it? You can eat it cheaply in China (laughs)," were also observed. (Translation/Editing: Mae)