Jeonnam Western Region's First 'Pet Playground' Opens in Mokpo

Simultaneous Capacity for 160 Animals at Bujusan-nae

Unused space at Bujusan utilized as a dog playground. Photo by Mokpo City

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Jeong Seunghyun] Mokpo City announced on the 21st that it has established the first "Pet Playground" in the southwestern region of Jeollanam-do, a resting place for companion animals.

The city will hold the "Bujusan Pet Playground Opening Ceremony" on the 22nd and will open the playground free of charge after the ceremony.

Mayor Kim Jongsik of Mokpo emphasized, "We are pleased to build animal-friendly infrastructure that responds to the increasing population of pet owners. It is significant in that it resolves the wishes of pet owners and utilizes the former crematorium site as a convenience facility for citizens."

The pet playground, created on a 3,500㎡ site around the former Mokpo Crematorium, can accommodate up to 180 animals simultaneously. Operating hours are from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. every Tuesday through Sunday, excluding the regular closing day on Monday. Operating hours may vary during winter and rainy days.

Admission is free, and only registered dogs with completed pet registration can use the playground. For safety, children under 13 years old must enter accompanied by an adult guardian.

The pet playground consists of separate play areas for small and medium-sized dogs and large dogs, a dog-only drinking fountain, walking trails, shade shelters, benches, and various convenience facilities, as well as a grass plaza where pets can run and play together.

Since August, the city has gathered opinions from abandoned dog associations, pet clubs, and experts, and reviewed cases from other regions to establish the pet playground.

A city official stated, "We expect the pet playground to contribute to easing conflicts between pet owners and non-pet owners and to establishing a healthy pet culture," and added, "We ask visitors to bring waste bags and safety leashes to collect excrement and prepare for unexpected behaviors."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.