South Korea ends bile farming: for decades, bears were confined to tiny, barren cages, often unable to stand or turn around, many suffered chronic infections, open wounds, and immense pain from repeated bile extraction

 

As of January 1, 2026, South Korea has officially put an end to its cruel bear bile farming industry, a long-overdue and historic step forward for animal welfare. This monumental decision follows a 2022 agreement between the South Korean government, bear farmers, and animal protection organizations to phase out bile extraction and ban the breeding of bears for this inhumane practice.

For decades, mainly Asiatic black bears were confined to tiny, barren cages, often unable to stand, turn around, or move freely. Many suffered chronic infections, open wounds, and immense pain from repeated bile extraction, a practice condemned by veterinarians and animal welfare advocates worldwide. This ban directly confronts these inhumane conditions and confirms what advocates have been saying for years: the industry was built on extreme cruelty.

The 2022 agreement, led by the Ministry of Environment in partnership with the Bear Farmers Association and animal welfare organizations, set the stage for this historic transition. It provided a clear timeline to end bile extraction and breeding, while also establishing support for farmers as the industry was phased out. Under the new law, any extraction of bile after the grace period carries legal penalties.

The government has committed to overseeing the relocation and lifelong care of the remaining bears, many of whom have never known anything but captivity. While sanctuary space and funding remain challenges, and disputes over compensation continue, the decision represents a major shift toward compassion, accountability, and ethical treatment of animals.

South Korea’s bear bile industry began in the early 1980s, driven by demand for traditional medicine. Ending it would not have been possible without decades of tireless advocacy. Organizations such as World Animal Protection and Green Korea United (GKU), along with countless activists and concerned citizens, played a critical role in raising public awareness and building the momentum to make this change possible.

Maya Pastakia, Global Campaign Manager – Wildlife, Not Medicine, at World Animal Protection, stated:

“This is the result that we, in partnership with Green Korea United, have been tirelessly campaigning and working towards for over 18 years – we are absolutely thrilled. Captive bile bears are cruelly exploited and commodified. They live out their lives in tiny, cramped cages, enduring immense mental and physical suffering – unable to climb trees, play and forage for food as they would in the wild.

“The South Korean government has taken a bold stand for bears – something made all the more impactful by the Bear Farmers Association and animal welfare organizations joining hands and making this momentous decision.

Animals Asia and World Animal Protection