Wildlife cafes in South Korea, popular for exhibiting rare animals like raccoons and meerkats in urban settings, are facing a nationwide ban. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, Dec. 15 (Korea Bizwire) – As of December 14, wildlife cafes in South Korea, popular for exhibiting rare animals like raccoons and meerkats in urban settings, are facing a nationwide ban. Under the new law, exhibiting wild animals in unlicensed facilities like cafes could lead to imprisonment of up to two years or a fine of up to 20 million won.
Previously, zoos could easily register with minimal exhibition and breeding facilities, leading to concerns over animal welfare limitations. From now on, operating a zoo will require meeting strict criteria and obtaining official permission.
Displaying stress-prone wild mammals such as raccoons and meerkats in animal cafes is prohibited. The law also bans interactive activities like feeding, touching, or riding these animals.
Existing wildlife cafes will be given a grace period until December 13, 2027, but the law prohibits any interaction with wild animals during this period, including touching or riding them. However, under expert review, interaction causing no significant stress to the animals may be allowed with prior permission.
Displaying stress-prone wild mammals such as raccoons and meerkats in animal cafes is prohibited. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
An official from the Ministry of Environment stated, “Activities like horse riding are permissible since horses are accustomed to being ridden. The goal is to prevent unnecessary stress and suffering. Not all touching, riding, or feeding activities are banned, but each case will require specific interpretation.”
This ban extends to aquariums as well, marking the end of dolphin shows, a staple at many facilities. Certain species like parrots, pheasants, and non-venomous snakes are still allowed for exhibition by public interest organizations. Domestic animals like dogs and cats can continue to be displayed as usual.
The change in regulations comes amid ongoing debates over whether wildlife experiences constitute animal abuse and controversies involving some businesses keeping animals in poor conditions.
With approximately 240 wildlife cafes across the country (according to a 2021 survey by the Ministry of Environment), the new law poses a significant challenge for business owners, who have expressed concerns about their livelihoods.
To continue operating, they must obtain zoo licenses, which require meeting several criteria, including employing veterinarians. Some owners are voicing their discontent, especially because the law permits certain animals like parrots and non-venomous snakes while banning others.
the Ministry of Environment has announced plans to provide shelter for the animals at the Exotic Animal Rescue Center in Seocheon, South Chungcheong Province. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
While concerns have arisen regarding the fate of some animals at the conclusion of the grace period, the Ministry of Environment has announced plans to provide shelter for the animals at the Exotic Animal Rescue Center in Seocheon, South Chungcheong Province.
The newly constructed shelter, set to open this month, can accommodate 300-400 animals and plans are underway to build another facility by the end of 2025 to house up to 600-800 animals. If necessary, the plan also includes using wildlife rescue centers and zoos for temporary shelter.
Some cafe owners, however, have expressed skepticism about whether the animals will be adequately cared for in the shelters, questioning whether these facilities can provide suitable environments for a variety of different species.
Ms. Son, 62, who has operated a raccoon cafe in Incheon’s Gyeyang District for eight years, criticized the legislation, stating, “Most raccoons here are fourth-generation and have lost all wild instincts. Some talk of releasing them, but this law seems to be made without understanding raccoons.” He asserted that he would not send his seven raccoons to the shelter.
Kim Hyun-jeong, the owner of a Mapo District wildlife cafe, also expressed dismay, saying, “These animals, including meerkats, raccoons, and foxes, are no different from domestic pets like dogs and cats, but are being banned because they’re considered wildlife. I can’t send these animals I’ve raised like family to a shelter. If I have to close in four years, I’m prepared to move to the countryside and take responsibility for them.”
J. S. Shin (js_shin@koreabizwire.com)
