“Harmful wildlife” is defined as species that cause damage to crops or areas due to overpopulation, including pigeons, sparrows, magpies, and larger animals like deer and wild boars. (Yonhap)
SEOUL, Dec. 21 (Korea Bizwire) – Starting March 2025, individuals caught feeding wildlife such as pigeons and magpies in Seoul’s urban parks and Han River parks will face fines of up to 1 million won ($760).
This measure, part of the newly passed Ordinance on Prohibition of Feeding Harmful Wildlife, aims to mitigate ecological and urban issues caused by overpopulation of certain species.
The Seoul Metropolitan Council approved the ordinance on December 20, following amendments to the Wildlife Protection and Management Act, which allow local governments to prohibit feeding of harmful wildlife and impose fines for violations.
Designated no-feeding zones include city parks, heritage protection areas, and major urban infrastructure sites.
“Harmful wildlife” is defined as species that cause damage to crops or areas due to overpopulation, including pigeons, sparrows, magpies, and larger animals like deer and wild boars. Enforcement of the ordinance will begin on January 24, with a grace period for fines until March 1, 2025.
M. H. Lee (mhlee@koreabizwire.com)
