Rules on keeping pets

Failing to register, or walking a dog off-lead, brings a fine.

Animal registration

• Registering a dog is compulsory — at a community centre or a registering veterinary clinic.
• Registration uses an implanted microchip or an external tag.
• Report changes when you move or ownership changes.
• The registration number is decisive if the animal is lost.

When out

• A lead is compulsory, with length limits.
• Always carry waste bags and clear up — not doing so brings a fine.
• Muzzles are compulsory for designated dangerous breeds. Check whether yours is listed.
• In lifts, stairwells and other shared spaces, carry the dog or keep the lead short.
• Check the pet rules for parks and walking paths. See park-leisure.

Problems with neighbours

• Barking causes disputes as often as floor noise. See noise-issues.
• Check whether your lease bars pets. See lease-contract.
• The owner is responsible if a dog bites — treatment costs and legal liability follow. See dog-bite.
• If a dispute arises, consult the building office or community centre.

Where to go

• Community centre (animal registration)
• Veterinary clinics (registration and care)
• 120 and other local call centres (stray animals, complaints)
• Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs www.mafra.go.kr
• 112 reporting animal cruelty

Questions people ask

What if I don't register? It is subject to a fine, and finding a lost animal becomes very hard.

How do I bring a pet from home? There are quarantine procedures requiring vaccinations, tests and documents — prepare well before departure. Ask the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency.

My landlord says no pets. Check the contract clause. Breaching it can become a dispute — always confirm before signing.

I found a stray animal. Report to your local authority (120 and similar) or community centre. Check the procedure before taking it in.

Take care

If your dog bites someone, you bear the treatment costs and legal liability. Always observe lead and muzzle rules. Animal cruelty is a crime and can be reported to 112. If keeping the animal becomes impossible, do not abandon it — consult the local authority or a protection organisation.

Related

dog-bite · noise-issues · lease-contract · park-leisure · apartment-rules

Source

Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs www.mafra.go.kr / As of 2026-08