Mandatory CCTV Installation for All Pet-Related Businesses. (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
SEOUL, June 5 (Korea Bizwire) — In a major move to strengthen animal welfare protections, South Korea has expanded its mandate requiring closed-circuit television (CCTV) installation to all pet-related businesses, including pet shops and animal exhibition facilities.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs announced Wednesday that a revised enforcement ordinance of the Animal Protection Act took effect on June 2, 2025. The revision is aimed at curbing animal abuse by enhancing surveillance and accountability within the pet industry.
Previously, CCTV requirements were limited to specific sectors such as animal grooming, transport, burial, and boarding services. The new ordinance broadens the scope to include general pet shops, breeders, importers, and animal display facilities.
To ease the burden on small businesses, the government has introduced a phased implementation timeline. Businesses with facilities larger than 300 square meters must complete installation by December 31, 2025, while those under that threshold have until December 31, 2026.
In addition, starting June 3, 2026, all breeders will be required to register dogs aged 12 months or older with local governments. The ministry says the measure will help improve oversight of breeding practices and ensure better management of canine populations raised for reproduction.
The revised policy also introduces consistent standards for animal testing in national R&D projects and allows pet owners to report changes when switching from external to internal RFID microchip implants for pet identification.
“These updates mark a critical step forward in reinforcing animal welfare and building a more transparent, responsible pet industry,” the ministry said in a statement.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
