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Our campaign advocating for the welfare of companion animals in South Korea is making an impact, and the development below is a very encouraging sign. However, this marks only the beginning. Sustained and decisive pressure must continue to be applied to the South Korean government to ensure that a comprehensive Companion Animal Policy is implemented without delay—one that effectively ends the severe abuse and cruelty these animals continue to face.

The following is an English translation of a report published by South Korea’s KBS News on December 19, 2025.

Government Weighs Companion Animal Policy Task Force; Minister of Gender Equality and Family Says Many View Pets as Family

The South Korean government is expected to establish a specialized task force (TF) under the Prime Minister’s Office to oversee companion animal-related policies. This move follows remarks by President Lee Jae-myung during a policy briefing by the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family (MGEF), where he raised questions regarding the administrative jurisdiction of companion animal welfare.

During the briefing held on December 19th at the Seoul Government Complex, President Lee told Minister Won Min-kyong, “I recently suggested creating an ‘Animal Welfare Center’ for tasks like banning animal abuse and supporting companion animal care. This prompted debate over which ministry should oversee the agency.”

“When I suggested the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, some argued that since it is a matter of welfare, it should fall under the Ministry of Health and Welfare,” the President said. “However, others argued that since pets are now considered family members, the responsibility should lie with the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family.”

When asked if the MGEF would be a suitable home for the agency, Minister Won responded, “I believe a significant portion of the public now views companion animals as an extension of the family unit.”

President Lee agreed, asking, “If we were to establish the agency under your ministry, would you be open to it?” Minister Won replied, “If that’s what the public wants, we should take on that responsibility.”

President Lee acknowledged that the suggestion was made “somewhat in jest,” but warned that the issue could spark “intense friction.” He urged officials to give careful thought to which government body would be best suited to oversee companion animal policy.

Closing the briefing, Prime Minister Kim Min-seok added, “Companion animal-related duties need to be consolidated into a formal policy framework, yet no single ministry currently claims full ownership. We will review the formation of a task force to aggregate these issues and develop a cohesive policy.”