GANGNEUNG, Feb. 8 (Korea Bizwire) – The city of Gangneung announced on February 7 that it has initiated a pilot program by installing pet waiting areas at public restrooms to create a more mature pet culture, ensuring both pet owners and non-pet owners can use the facilities comfortably and safely.
With the pet population in Gangneung reaching approximately 55,500 individuals (27,470 households) in 2023, there has been a sharp increase in pet ownership. This rise is attributed to a shift in societal attitudes towards pets as family members and the emerging trend of traveling with pets, which has also led to an increase in tourists bringing their furry companions.
In response to this trend and to improve convenience for both residents and visitors, the city government has set up pet waiting areas at three key tourist spots: the central pathway of Gyeongpo Beach, in front of the artificial waterfall at Gyeongpo Beach, and at the public restroom near the coffee street in Anmok.
Previously, pet owners faced significant inconvenience while using public restrooms during walks or travels with their pets, as there were no designated areas for pets to wait. Some pet owners had to either carry their pets into the restroom or leave them tied up nearby, posing safety and comfort concerns.
To address this issue, the city selected locations near restroom entrances where the paths of pet owners and non-pet owners do not overlap. They installed waiting areas equipped with leash anchors, allowing pet owners to securely leave their pets while using the restroom facilities.
Kang Chun-rang, head of city’s Environmental Department, stated, “We plan to monitor the results of the pilot program and, based on the feedback, consider additional installations to ensure that pet owners, their pets, and non-pet owners can all conveniently use public restrooms.”
Image credit: Gangneung city / photonews@koreabizwire.com
