Historic bear bile extraction ban must be backed by further protections for bears
After decades of dedication, relentless effort, and tireless advocacy, a historic victory for bears has finally been achieved in the Republic of Korea.
On January 1, 2026, the bear bile farming industry industry that kept these wonderful creatures in tiny cages, enduring pain and suffering, came to an end. World Animal Protection has worked for more than 30 years to protect bears across the globe.
Ending the bear bile industry through decades of advocacy
Since 2003, we have partnered with Green Korea United (GKU) to end the bear bile industry in the Republic of Korea by building public support and advocating for the improved welfare of captive bears.
As a result of these efforts, the government introduced a sterilisation programme on bear farms to prevent breeding, ensuring that no new cubs are born into a lifetime of captivity and suffering.
This major step taken by the government of the Republic of Korea this year is critically important, as achieving a last generation of exploited animals is a vital first step toward phasing out the industry.
It ensures that animal numbers will gradually decline and that resources can be focused on providing better welfare for the few remaining animals.
What the new bear bile ban means for captive bears
From 1 January 2026, the ownership, breeding, and trade of bears and bear parts is prohibited and will be subject to fines and criminal penalties.
The government has granted a six month grace period to enable a transition for bears still held on farms.
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Click to donateFurther protections still needed for bears in captivity
However, a legal ban does not automatically guarantee the welfare of bears who remain in captivity.
While some of the bears have been relocated to government built or NGO operated sanctuaries, there is a shortage of facilities capable of accommodating the remaining rescued bears due to be given up by farmers.
Further measures are still needed to ensure that all remaining bears can live out the rest of their lives safely and with dignity.
We welcome the Government of the Republic of Korea's commitments to date including delivering the legal prohibitions required, and their efforts to find solutions for bears who will be surrendered by the farmers as a result, through enabling sanctuary capacity.
However, we are urging the government to take further action to support the long-term care of the remaining bears so that they can enjoy fulfilling lives free from suffering and abuse.
A model for ending bear bile farming across Asia
We appreciate Green Korea United (GKU) for its hard work in helping move the Government of the Republic of Korea toward ensuring that this will be the last generation of bears to be cruelly exploited for commercial purposes. GKU will continue its independent efforts until the bear bile industry is fully and permanently ended.
We hope that these actions will serve as a model for other countries in Asia and contribute to ending cruel bear bile farming across the region.
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