South Korea's president mulls dog meat ban as consumption wanes

South Korea's President Moon Jae-in has raised the possibility of banning the consumption of dog meat in the country.

Demand for dog meat has significantly reduced in recent years, particularly among young people.

But it is estimated that up to one million dogs are slaughtered in South Korea for human consumption every year.

Speaking during a meeting with the prime minister, Mr Moon questioned whether it was time to "prudently consider" a ban.

It is the first time that the president, a known dog lover, has raised the issue.

Mr Moon made the comments as he was briefed on new measures to protect abandoned animals in the country.

There is already a law in place banning the cruel slaughter of dogs and cats, but consumption itself is not banned.

However, in recent years, people have turned away from eating dog meat, particularly amid a growing trend to keep the animals as pets.

As a result, three of the country's largest dog meat markets have closed down.

Animal rights groups, who have long called for a stop to the dog meat trade, welcomed Mr Moon's comments.

Discussion around the topic is set to intensify in the run up to the presidential election, which is scheduled to take place next year. Several candidates have already raised the possibility of banning dog meat.