Yes, feeding stray cats is legal in South Korea, but local governments enforce strict regulations to balance animal welfare with public health and urban management. While no nationwide ban exists, municipal ordinances often require permits, designate feeding zones, or prohibit actions deemed disruptive.
Key Regulations for Feeding Stray Cats in South Korea
- Seoul Metropolitan Government Ordinance (2024 revision): Requires individuals feeding stray cats in public spaces to obtain a “Companion Animal Feeding Permit” from the Seoul Animal Protection Division, limiting feeding to designated areas to prevent sanitation issues.
- Busan City Ordinance (2023): Mandates that feeders must use biodegradable containers and dispose of waste in designated bins within 30 minutes of feeding to comply with public cleanliness standards under the Waste Management Act.
- Gyeonggi Province Public Health Regulation (2025): Prohibits feeding stray cats near schools, hospitals, or food markets to mitigate zoonotic disease risks, with violators subject to fines up to ₩1 million under the Infectious Disease Control Act.
Local authorities, such as the Ministry of Environment and regional Animal Welfare Committees, monitor compliance. Non-compliance may trigger enforcement under the Animal Protection Act, which penalizes actions causing public nuisance or health hazards. Feeding without permits or in restricted zones can result in administrative orders to cease activities. Residents should consult municipal websites for updated ordinances, as 2026 amendments are expected to further restrict feeding in high-density urban areas.