Falsifying livestock traceability numbers to carry prison term from next year

Starting next year, falsifying livestock traceability numbers can result in a prison sentence of up to one year. Ahead of the tougher penalties taking effect, the government will conduct intensive inspections of about 860 livestock sellers — including online shopping platforms — to check for violations in traceability number display, quality ratings and country-of-origin labeling.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced Tuesday it will carry out its fourth-quarter joint crackdown on the livestock traceability system, targeting online livestock retailers and other sellers from Wednesday through Nov. 25, a roughly two-week campaign.

The crackdown comes in response to the growing volume of livestock products sold online. About 860 businesses — including online shopping mall operators suspected of labeling violations or traceability reporting breaches — are subject to the inspection.

Inspectors will verify whether traceability numbers are accurately displayed, whether traceability reporting obligations have been met, and whether related records are properly maintained. When on-site checks raise suspicions of falsified traceability numbers, DNA identity testing will also be conducted.

Penalties for falsifying livestock traceability numbers will be significantly strengthened starting Jan. 8. Under the revised Act on Traceability Management of Livestock and Livestock Products, enacted July 7, violations that currently carry a fine or administrative penalty of up to 5 million won will become punishable by up to one year in prison or a fine of up to 10 million won.

Alongside the crackdown, the ministry plans to brief sellers on the key changes under the revised law and encourage accurate traceability number labeling.

"We plan to continue monitoring the livestock traceability system so that consumers can purchase livestock products online with confidence," said Jeon Ik-seong, head of the ministry's livestock retail team. "As penalties for falsifying livestock traceability numbers will be strengthened starting next year, we urge livestock sellers to actively comply with accurate traceability number labeling."