Introduction of Permit System for Raising Dangerous Dogs to Prevent 'Dog Bite Accidents'... Strengthening Sanctions on Animal Abuse

The Complete Revision of the Animal Protection Act Passed in the National Assembly Plenary Session

[Asia Economy Sejong=Reporter Kim Hyewon] From now on, anyone who wants to raise a dangerous dog must obtain permission from the mayor or governor. Dog breeds that are not classified as dangerous dogs under current law can also be designated as dangerous dogs after temperament evaluation. Sanctions against animal abuse offenders will also be strengthened.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced on the 5th that a full revision of the Animal Protection Act, centered on these contents, has passed the plenary session of the National Assembly.

The amendment includes the introduction of a permit system for raising dangerous dogs to prevent dog bite accidents. The decision to grant permission for raising is made based on a temperament evaluation of the dog's aggressiveness and other factors.

Even dog breeds that are not classified as dangerous dogs under current law can be ordered by the mayor or governor to undergo temperament evaluation if they have caused harm to people or animals. If designated as dangerous dogs based on the evaluation results, they must also obtain permission to be raised.

Additionally, a national qualification for companion animal behavior instructors has been established, creating a foundation to train professionals specialized in preventing dog bite accidents. Individuals with expertise in companion animal behavior analysis, evaluation, and training can obtain national certification through an examination.

The amendment more specifically defines acts of animal abuse. Violations will be punishable by imprisonment of up to three years or a fine of up to 30 million won. Those who abuse animals must complete up to 200 hours of counseling and educational programs.

A reporting system for private animal protection facilities has been introduced, bringing private animal shelters under regulation alongside animal protection centers operated by local governments. Registered private animal protection facilities must comply with certain facility and operational standards. Furthermore, an 'animal acceptance system' has been introduced, allowing local governments to take in animals abandoned by their owners. However, to prevent indiscriminate acceptance requests, reasons for abandonment will be strictly limited to long-term hospitalization, military service, and similar cases.

Animal import, sales, and funeral businesses will change from a registration system to a permit system. Penalties for unauthorized or unregistered operations will be strengthened from the existing 'fines up to 5 million won' to a maximum of 'imprisonment up to two years or fines up to 20 million won.'

This amendment will be enforced one year after promulgation, following approval by the Cabinet meeting and the President. However, the dangerous dog raising permit system and the introduction of the national qualification for companion animal behavior instructors will be implemented two years after promulgation.

Kim Wonil, Director of Agricultural Life Policy at the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, said, "We expect that changes in public awareness regarding animal welfare will be reflected in the system through this amendment," and added, "We plan to do our best in revising subordinate statutes."

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