The pit bull terrier is, by nature, an affectionate and patient dog with a loyal temperament toward its family. However, it has long been bred and trained for dog fighting by individuals with aggressive tendencies. Because of the way these people have exploited the breed’s tolerance for pain and physical strength in fights, pit bull terriers have come to be widely associated with a negative and harmful image. (Image courtesy of Pixabay)
BUSAN, May 8 (Korea Biziwre) — Starting this year, residents of Busan who wish to own certain aggressive dog breeds such as pit bulls and Rottweilers must not only obtain a local government permit but also pass a formal temperament assessment, the city announced Wednesday.
The move follows the implementation of South Korea’s revised Animal Protection Act, which took effect in July 2024.
The law mandates that individuals intending to raise designated dangerous breeds—including Tosas, Pit Bull Terriers, American Staffordshire Terriers, Staffordshire Bull Terriers, and Rottweilers—must secure prior approval from provincial or metropolitan authorities.
As part of the new requirement, Busan will establish an expert-led evaluation committee that conducts interviews with dog owners and assesses the animals in real-life scenarios to determine their aggression levels. Dogs that pass the evaluation will be granted a license for ownership.
Until the 1980s, the Tosa dog in South Korea was widely regarded as the epitome of a fierce large-breed dog and was often misunderstood as a generic term. When people saw warnings like “Beware of Dog” written in large letters on gates or walls, they frequently assumed that a Tosa was behind the door, not realizing it referred to a specific breed. (Image from an online community)
Owners must pay 250,000 won (approximately $175) per dog for the temperament test, while the city will subsidize the remaining administrative costs.
The evaluation covers 12 specific situations that may provoke fear or aggression—such as sudden movements, interactions with strangers, and passing other animals—to assess both the dog’s behavior and the owner’s handling skills.
Failure to comply with the new dangerous dog ownership permit system could result in penalties of up to one year in prison or a 10 million won fine.
Authorities are currently operating a grace period, and existing owners of designated breeds must complete the licensing process by October 26, 2025.
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
