You’ve got your tickets to Seoul, your bags are nearly packed, and there’s one furry friend curled up on the couch looking at you with those wide, questioning eyes. “Are you coming too?” you whisper. But before you make any promises to your pet, there’s a big question you need answered: Can you bring your pet to Korea?
The short answer is yes — but bringing a pet to Korea requires preparation, paperwork, and attention to detail. South Korea has strict import regulations for animals, especially to prevent diseases like rabies. Here's everything you need to know to bring your cat, dog, or other animal companion safely into the country.
1. What Pets Can You Bring?
Most travelers bring dogs and cats, and these are the animals primarily covered under Korean import regulations. You can also bring other animals such as rabbits, hamsters, and birds, but they may require additional quarantine procedures or special import permits depending on the species.
For the purpose of this guide, we'll focus on dogs and cats, which are the most common pets brought by tourists or expats.
2. Microchipping Is Mandatory
All dogs and cats entering South Korea must be microchipped with an ISO-compliant 15-digit microchip. The chip must be scannable with universal readers — otherwise, you may be asked to bring your own reader. Make sure your veterinarian scans it and records the number in all your pet’s documents.
3. Rabies Vaccination & Certificate
Korea is serious about rabies prevention. Your pet must be vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days before arrival but no more than 12 months prior (unless your vaccine is valid for 3 years and that’s noted). The rabies certificate must clearly show:
- Pet’s identity (name, breed, sex, microchip number)
- Vaccination date and product name
- Veterinarian’s signature and clinic info
If you're traveling from a non-rabies-free country, your pet must also pass a rabies antibody titer test (RNATT) from an approved lab, and the result must be at least 0.5 IU/ml.
4. Quarantine and Entry Process
If your paperwork is complete and your pet passes inspection, no quarantine is required. However, if there are issues (missing documentation, no microchip, failed titer), your pet may be subject to quarantine of up to 7 to 14 days at your expense.
Upon arrival in Korea (typically through Incheon International Airport), you'll go through the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA). Be sure to declare your pet upon landing.
5. Required Documents Checklist
- Microchip certificate
- Rabies vaccination certificate
- Rabies antibody titer test (if applicable)
- Health certificate issued by a licensed veterinarian (within 10 days of travel)
- Arrival declaration form for pets
All documents should be in English or Korean, and it’s a good idea to have both printed and digital copies on hand.
6. Airlines and Pet Travel Tips
Each airline has its own policy regarding pets, so check in advance whether your pet can travel in the cabin or must go in the cargo hold. Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and many international carriers allow pets, but rules vary by size and breed.
Also, avoid flying during extreme weather and consider booking direct flights to reduce stress for your pet. Some breeds like pugs or bulldogs (brachycephalic breeds) may have restrictions due to breathing risks during flight.
7. What About Long-Term Stays?
If you’re moving to Korea with your pet, it’s important to know that dogs over three months old must be registered locally. Some apartment buildings do not allow pets, so always check housing rules before signing a lease.
Korea has a growing pet culture with plenty of pet cafes, vets, and pet-friendly parks — but public transport access can be limited. Small pets can ride the subway if they're in carriers, but buses usually do not allow animals unless they’re service animals.
Final Thoughts
Your pet is family, and if you're coming to Korea for an extended visit or even just a few weeks, you’ll want them by your side. With the right planning, paperwork, and patience, bringing your pet to Korea can be a smooth process.
Start early, work with your vet, and double-check airline and Korean regulations. That way, your pet can enjoy the hanok villages, cherry blossoms, and mountain trails right alongside you.
Labels: bring pet to Korea, pet travel Korea, Korea quarantine pet, rabies vaccination Korea
Search Description: Planning to bring your dog or cat to South Korea? Here's everything you need to know about pet microchips, vaccines, and quarantine rules for a safe journey.
Image alt: Pet carrier with small dog at airport departure gate before flight to Korea
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