South Korean PM confirms end to 'scientific' whaling plans
WDCS welcomes the fact that the Korean Times is reporting that “Despite the necessity of scientific research about whales, the government decided to only allow the studies that do not require whaling,” Prime Minister Kim Hwang-sik said during his weekly briefing to President Lee Myung-bak held on Tuesday.
Officials from the presidential office, the Prime Minister’s Office and the agriculture and fisheries ministry held a meeting recently to discuss the issue, according to sources. President Lee also reproached Agriculture Minister Suh Kyu-yong as international criticism grew, they said.
“Discussions between government ministries have been concluded in a way that effectively scraps the plan to allow whaling in coastal waters,” a senior official said on condition of anonymity. “Even if it is for scientific research, we have to take into consideration that this has emerged as a sensitive issue at home and abroad.”
Well done to Korea for listening to its own people and the international community.
