In a move to prevent pet-related accidents, South Korea has introduced a two-part measure requiring owners or potential owners of particularly aggressive dog breeds to obtain government permission for pet ownership. The measure, known as “maenggyeons,” targeting aggressive dogs, will be enforced starting April 27.
Under the new ordinance, individuals seeking ownership of five specific breeds classified as “aggressive” by the Animal Protection Act must secure a permit from their city or provincial government. The designated aggressive breeds include the American Staffordshire Terrier, American Pit Bull Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Tosa (Japanese Mastiff), and Rottweiler.
Regional authorities will assess the individual dog’s aggressiveness and other characteristics before granting ownership permission. Current owners of these aggressive breeds are required to obtain a permit within six months of the measure’s implementation.
Additionally, dogs not belonging to the specified aggressive breeds may be categorized as “aggressive” if they cause significant harm to humans or other animals. In such cases, they may undergo a state evaluation and potentially be labeled as aggressive dogs, requiring a permit for ownership. Owners of aggressive dogs must ensure their pets are neutered and covered by an insurance policy.
South Korean law already prohibits aggressive dogs from being outside the residence without their owner, leash, and muzzle. These dogs are also barred from entering children’s facilities, including elementary schools.
According to the National Fire Agency, there have been over 2,000 cases annually of dog attacks from 2018 to 2022, with 2,216 cases reported in 2022 alone. The law stipulates that owners of dogs causing injury to humans, without wearing safety equipment, may face up to two years in prison or a fine of 20 million won ($15,000).
The National Assembly passed related law revisions in April last year, introducing a state license system for professionals in dog training. The forthcoming notification will provide specific criteria, subjects, and schedules for obtaining the state license in dog training.
