South Korea Bear Bile Ban 2026: The Final Chapter for a Decades-Old Industry
South Korea officially begins its full ban on bear bile farming on Jan 1, 2026. Explore the history, the relocation of 199 bears, and the future of animal welfare policy.
The curtain finally falls on South Korea's controversial 44-year-old bear bile industry. Starting tomorrow, Jan. 1, 2026, South Korea will fully enforce a ban on bear breeding and bile extraction. This move marks a massive shift in the nation's approach to animal welfare and its standing in the global community.
The Road to the South Korea Bear Bile Ban 2026
According to Yonhap News, the practice began in 1981 as a rural income boost. While imports were halted in 1985 due to international pressure, domestic farming continued for traditional medicine. The turning point came in December 2023, when the National Assembly revised the Wildlife Protection and Management Act to outlaw the practice once and for all.
Logistics and Sanctuary Delays for 199 Remaining Bears
Currently, 199Asiatic black bears remain in captivity across 11 farms. While 34 bears have already been relocated to the Gurye facility, full relocation faces hurdles. A second shelter in South Chungcheong Province was damaged by floods earlier this year, delaying its completion until 2027. In the meantime, the government is coordinating with public and private zoos to house the remaining animals.
The government will make every effort to ensure that every bear is protected to the very last one.
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