So You Want to Bring Your Pet to Korea — Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Picture this: you’ve just booked your dream trip to Seoul. You’re imagining yourself strolling through the cherry blossom-lined streets of Yeouido, slurping up spicy tteokbokki at Gwangjang Market, and maybe even catching a K-Pop concert. But then you look down at your Golden Retriever — those big, soulful eyes staring up at you — and the guilt hits. Can you actually bring your pet to Korea?

The answer is yes, absolutely. But figuring out how to bring pet to Korea involves navigating a maze of veterinary paperwork, airline regulations, quarantine rules, and import permits that can feel overwhelming. South Korea has specific animal import requirements enforced by the Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA), and missing even one document can mean your furry companion gets held at Incheon Airport — or worse, denied entry entirely.

Every year, thousands of expats, military families, and traveling pet parents successfully bring dogs and cats into South Korea. In 2025 alone, over 12,000 companion animals were imported through Incheon International Airport. With the right preparation — starting at least 4-6 months before your departure — the process is completely manageable. This guide walks you through every single step, from microchipping and vaccinations to choosing the right airline crate and finding pet-friendly accommodations in Seoul, Busan, and beyond.

Understanding South Korea’s Pet Import Requirements

Traveling to Korea with Your Pet — Photo by Tran Mau Tri Tam ✪ on Unsplash

Before you start packing treats and toys, you need to understand the legal requirements for bringing a pet into South Korea. The rules differ depending on your pet’s species, your country of origin, and whether your destination country is classified as rabies-free or rabies-controlled.

The Role of APQA (Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency)

South Korea’s Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA) oversees all animal imports. They operate inspection stations at Incheon International Airport (ICN), Gimpo Airport, Gimhae International Airport (Busan), and Jeju International Airport. Every pet arriving in Korea must clear APQA inspection upon landing.

The APQA website (qia.go.kr) provides official documentation requirements, but navigating it can be tricky since much of it is in Korean. Here’s what they require for dogs and cats entering from the United States:

ISO-compliant microchip (15-digit, ISO 11784/11785 standard)
Valid rabies vaccination administered at least 30 days before arrival
Rabies antibody titer test (FAVN or RFFIT) with results ≥ 0.5 IU/mL
USDA-endorsed health certificate (APHIS Form 7001) issued within 10 days of departure
Import permit from APQA (applied online, processing takes 3-5 business days)

Missing any single item on this list can result in your pet being placed in government quarantine for up to 10 days at your expense — roughly $25-40 USD per day depending on the facility.

Rabies-Free vs. Rabies-Controlled Countries

South Korea classifies countries into two categories for pet import purposes. The United States is considered a rabies-controlled country, which means additional testing is required compared to rabies-free nations like Japan, Australia, or the UK.

If you’re coming from the US, you must have the rabies antibody titer test (also called the FAVN test) performed at a laboratory approved by APQA. In the US, the primary approved lab is the Kansas State University Rabies Laboratory. The test costs approximately $120-150 USD and results take 2-3 weeks.

Critical timing note: The blood sample for the titer test must be drawn at least 30 days after the most recent rabies vaccination and at least 90 days before your pet enters Korea. This is the number one reason people run into trouble when learning how to bring pet to Korea — they don’t start the process early enough.

Breed Restrictions You Should Know About

South Korea does not have a nationwide breed ban, but certain municipalities have mandatory muzzle and leash laws for designated “dangerous breeds.” Under the Animal Protection Act, the following breeds must be leashed (under 2 meters) and muzzled in public spaces:

Pit Bull Terrier (American Pit Bull Terrier, American Staffordshire Terrier)
Rottweiler
Tosa Inu
Dogo Argentino
Fila Brasileiro

Popular US breeds like Labrador Retrievers, French Bulldogs, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, and Poodles face no restrictions. Small breeds like Shih Tzus, Maltese, and Pomeranians — which are extremely popular in Korea — will fit right in.

Step-by-Step Timeline: Preparing Your Pet for Korea

The biggest mistake people make when figuring out how to bring pet to Korea is starting too late. Here’s a detailed timeline working backward from your departure date.

6 Months Before Departure

Get your pet microchipped. If your pet already has a microchip, verify it’s an ISO 11784/11785 compliant 15-digit chip. Many US microchips (like those from HomeAgain or AVID) use a different frequency. If your chip isn’t ISO-compliant, you have two options: implant a second ISO chip or bring your own universal reader to Korea.

You can purchase an ISO-compliant microchip through your veterinarian for $45-75 USD. The Datamars Mini chip and Trovan ID100A are both ISO-compliant and widely recognized in Korea. On Amazon, you can find universal microchip scanners for around $30-50 in case Korean facilities can’t read your chip.

Schedule a rabies vaccination. Your pet needs a current rabies vaccine. If your pet has never been vaccinated, or if their vaccination has lapsed, the clock starts here. The vaccine must be administered after the microchip is implanted (or on the same day) so the chip number is recorded on the vaccination certificate.

4-5 Months Before Departure

Get the rabies antibody titer test. At least 30 days after the rabies vaccination, have your vet draw blood and send it to Kansas State University Rabies Laboratory (or another APQA-approved lab). Request the FAVN (Fluorescent Antibody Virus Neutralization) test specifically.

The sample must be sent with the proper submission form and payment of approximately $121 USD. Results typically come back in 2-3 weeks. Your pet needs a result of ≥ 0.5 IU/mL to pass. Most healthy, vaccinated pets pass easily — the pass rate is over 95%.

If your pet fails, you’ll need to re-vaccinate and retest, which is why starting early is so crucial.

1-2 Months Before Departure

Apply for the APQA import permit. Visit the APQA online system and submit your application. You’ll need to upload copies of your pet’s microchip certificate, rabies vaccination record, and titer test results. The permit is typically issued within 3-5 business days and is valid for 90 days.

Book your flight and reserve cargo/cabin space for your pet. Not all airlines allow pets on Korea routes, and those that do have limited spots per flight. Book early — especially during peak travel seasons (March-April for cherry blossoms, September-October for fall foliage).

7-10 Days Before Departure

Visit your USDA-accredited veterinarian for the final health examination. Your vet will complete the APHIS Form 7001 (international health certificate), which must then be endorsed by your local USDA-APHIS Veterinary Services office. This endorsement is mandatory — an unendorsed health certificate will be rejected at Korean customs.

The health certificate must be issued within 10 days of departure. USDA endorsement typically takes 2-3 business days by mail, or same-day if you visit in person. The endorsement fee is $38 USD for the first two pages and $7 per additional page.

Choosing the Right Airline for Pet Travel to Korea

Not all airlines are created equal when it comes to pet transport. Your choice of airline can make the difference between a smooth journey and a stressful nightmare. Here’s a detailed comparison of the major carriers flying US-to-Korea routes.

Airlines That Allow Pets in Cabin

If your pet is small enough — generally under 15-17 pounds including the carrier — you may be able to bring them in the cabin with you. This is ideal for small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, and cats.

Airline	In-Cabin Weight Limit	Carrier Dimensions	Fee (One Way)	Pets Per Flight
Korean Air	15 lbs (7 kg) with carrier	45 x 33 x 20 cm	$200 USD	2-3 per cabin class
Asiana Airlines	15 lbs (7 kg) with carrier	45 x 33 x 20 cm	$200 USD	2 per cabin class
United Airlines	No in-cabin to Korea	N/A	N/A	Cargo only
Delta Air Lines	No in-cabin to Korea	N/A	N/A	Cargo only

Korean Air is widely considered the best option for pet travel to Korea. They have the most experience handling animal imports, their staff at Incheon are familiar with the APQA process, and they allow both in-cabin and checked pets. Reservations for in-cabin pets must be made at least 48 hours before departure by calling their reservation center directly.

Cargo vs. Checked Baggage vs. In-Cabin

For larger dogs — think Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Huskies — you’ll need to ship as checked baggage or cargo. Here’s the difference:

In-Cabin: Pet travels under the seat in front of you. Least stressful for small pets. Limited availability.
Checked Baggage: Pet travels in the pressurized, temperature-controlled cargo hold of your same flight. You check them in at the airport. Cost: $200-400 USD depending on airline.
Cargo (Manifest): Pet travels on a separate flight or the same flight but as air freight. Required for very large crates or if the airline doesn’t offer checked pet service. Cost: $800-2,500+ USD depending on weight and crate size. Companies like PetRelocation and Air Animal specialize in this service.

For the typical US-to-Korea flight (11-14 hours nonstop from LAX, SFO, JFK, or SEA), a direct flight is absolutely essential. Layovers add stress, increase the risk of mishandling, and may require additional health certificates for transit countries.

Essential Travel Gear for the Flight

Investing in the right travel gear makes a huge difference. Here are the must-haves:

IATA-approved hard-shell crate: The Petmate Sky Kennel (available at PetSmart and Chewy, $80-200 depending on size) is the gold standard. Make sure it’s large enough for your pet to stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably.
Absorbent crate liner: The AmazonBasics Pet Training Pads (XL) work great for lining the crate bottom. Get the heavy-duty version for long flights.
Clip-on water bowl: Airlines require a water dish attached to the inside of the crate door. The MidWest Homes Snap’y Fit Bowl (around $8 at Chewy) is spill-resistant and easy to fill from outside.
Comfort item: Place a worn t-shirt with your scent inside the crate. This is one of the most effective anxiety reducers according to veterinary behaviorists.
Calming supplement: Talk to your vet about Composure Pro chews or Adaptil pheromone spray (both available on Chewy). Avoid sedatives for air travel — most vets and airlines advise against them because sedation can affect breathing at altitude.

What Happens at Incheon Airport: The APQA Inspection Process

You’ve survived the 12-hour flight. Your pet made it. Now comes the final hurdle: clearing APQA inspection at Incheon International Airport. Understanding this process in advance will save you a lot of anxiety.

Arrival and Declaration

When you land at Incheon, you’ll fill out a customs declaration form indicating you’re traveling with a live animal. Follow the signs to the Animal Quarantine counter — it’s located in the arrivals hall near the customs inspection area in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2.

Have the following documents ready in a clear folder (do NOT pack these in checked luggage):

APQA import permit (printed copy)
USDA-endorsed health certificate (original)
Rabies vaccination certificate (original)
FAVN titer test results (original or certified copy)
Microchip certificate
Your passport

The APQA inspector will scan your pet’s microchip to verify it matches the documents, review all paperwork, and conduct a brief visual health check. If everything is in order, this process takes about 20-30 minutes.

What If Something Goes Wrong

If there’s a discrepancy — missing documents, expired titer test, microchip mismatch — your pet may be placed in APQA quarantine. The quarantine facility at Incheon is clean and staffed by veterinary professionals, but it’s not where you want your pet to end up.

Quarantine periods typically last 10 days and cost approximately ₩30,000-50,000 KRW per day ($22-37 USD). During quarantine, you can visit your pet during designated hours. Once the missing requirements are met (or the quarantine period expires with no health issues), your pet will be released to you.

Pro tip: Bring printed Korean translations of all your documents. While APQA inspectors generally speak English, having Korean versions speeds up the process significantly. You can get certified translations through services like One Hour Translation for about $30-50 per document.

Pet-Friendly Korea: Where to Stay and What to Do

South Korea has become remarkably pet-friendly in recent years. The country’s pet industry was valued at over $3.4 billion USD in 2025, and the culture around “반려동물” (companion animals) has shifted dramatically. Here’s how to make the most of your trip with your furry friend.

Pet-Friendly Accommodations

Finding pet-friendly lodging in Korea is easier than you might expect. Major booking platforms like Booking.com and Airbnb have robust pet-friendly filters for Korean properties. Here are some top options:

Grand Hyatt Seoul (Yongsan): Allows pets under 10 kg with a ₩100,000 ($75) cleaning fee. Located right next to Namsan, perfect for morning walks.
Glad Hotels (multiple locations): Pet-friendly rooms available at several branches. The Glad Mapo is particularly good for its proximity to the Han River parks.
Pet Pensions (펫펜션): These are Korea’s version of pet-friendly vacation rentals, found throughout Gangwon Province, Jeju Island, and Gyeonggi Province. They often include fenced yards and pet amenities. Search “펫펜션” on Naver or Kakao Map.
Airbnb: Many Korean hosts welcome small pets. Filter by “pets allowed” and always confirm with the host before booking. Expect a cleaning fee of ₩20,000-50,000.

If you’re planning a trip to Nami Island, be aware that pets are allowed on the island with a leash. It’s a gorgeous spot for photos with your pup among the tree-lined paths. Nami Island & Gangchon Rail Bike Day Trip Guide 2026

Dog-Friendly Parks and Outdoor Spaces

Korea’s parks have become increasingly dog-friendly. Seoul alone has over 30 designated off-leash dog parks (애견운동장). Some favorites include:

Boramae Park Dog Run (Dongjak-gu): One of Seoul’s largest off-leash areas with separate sections for small and large dogs.
World Cup Park Dog Playground (Mapo-gu): Stunning views of the World Cup Stadium and excellent agility equipment.
Hangang (Han River) Parks: The riverside parks stretching through Seoul are perfect for long walks. Banpo, Yeouido, and Ttukseom parks all have designated pet areas.
Bukhansan National Park: While dogs are restricted on most trails, the lower paths and park entrances are dog-friendly on leash.

Spring is an especially magical time to visit Korea with your pet. Imagine walking your dog under clouds of pink cherry blossoms along the Yeouido Spring Flower Festival path. 7 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Korea 2026 Guide

Pet-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants

Korea’s cafe culture extends to pets. Pet cafes (where you interact with resident animals) are everywhere, but many regular cafes also welcome your own pets. The Hongdae, Itaewon, and Garosugil neighborhoods in Seoul are particularly pet-friendly, with outdoor seating that welcomes dogs.

Look for the sign “반려동물 동반 가능” (companion animals welcome) on doors. Apps like Kakao Map and Naver Map now include pet-friendly filters for restaurants and cafes. The app “강아지와 함께” (With Dogs) is also excellent for finding pet-friendly venues across Korea.

Korean Pet Products Worth Trying During Your Visit

Korea’s pet care industry is innovative and trend-forward — much like its beauty industry. While you’re there, you’ll discover products that haven’t yet made it to the US market. Here’s what to look for.

Korean Pet Dental Care

Dental care for pets is a huge focus in Korea. Korean pet brands have developed some of the most advanced pet dental products in Asia. DentiSoft by Junglemonster is one of the top-selling pet dental care lines in Korea, available on Shopee SG and Shopee MY if you’re transiting through Southeast Asia. Their gentle dental chews are formulated specifically for dogs who resist traditional brushing.

For cat owners, CattiSoft (냥치멍치) offers a specialized feline dental care line that’s gained a cult following among Korean cat parents. These products are particularly popular for brachycephalic breeds like Persians and British Shorthairs that are prone to dental issues.

Back in the US, you can find comparable options like the Virbac C.E.T. Enzymatic Toothpaste ($12 at Chewy) or Greenies Dental Treats ($15-25 at PetSmart), but the Korean formulations tend to use more natural ingredients and gentler textures.

Where to Shop for Pet Supplies in Korea

You’ll want to stock up on essentials (and fun extras) during your stay:

Daiso Korea: Surprisingly excellent pet section with affordable leashes, bowls, toys, and grooming supplies. Most items are ₩1,000-5,000 ($0.75-3.75).
Pet Box (펫박스): Korean pet specialty chain with high-quality food, treats, and accessories.
Coupang (쿠팡): Korea’s answer to Amazon. Download the app and get same-day delivery on pet supplies to your hotel or Airbnb.
Olive Young: Yes, the beauty store! They now carry a growing selection of pet grooming and skincare products.

Health and Safety Tips for Your Pet in Korea

Keeping your pet healthy and safe in a new environment requires some planning. Korea has excellent veterinary care, but there are a few things every traveling pet parent should know.

Finding a Vet in Korea

Korea has an outstanding veterinary infrastructure. Seoul alone has over 1,500 veterinary clinics. For English-speaking vets, your best options are:

SNU (Seoul National University) Veterinary Teaching Hospital: World-class facility in Gwanak-gu with specialists in every discipline. Some staff speak English.
Irion Animal Hospital (Gangnam): Popular with the expat community. English-speaking vets on staff.
Mount Halla Animal Hospital (Jeju): If you’re visiting Jeju Island with your pet.

Veterinary care in Korea is significantly more affordable than in the US. A basic consultation runs ₩15,000-30,000 ($11-22), and even emergency visits rarely exceed ₩200,000 ($150) for initial treatment.

Seasonal Health Hazards

Summer (June-August): Korea’s monsoon season brings extreme humidity and temperatures above 35°C (95°F). Brachycephalic breeds (Bulldogs, Pugs, Boston Terriers) are especially vulnerable to heat stroke. Carry water at all times, avoid midday walks, and use cooling vests. The Ruffwear Swamp Cooler Vest ($40 on Chewy) is excellent for this.

Spring/Fall: Tick season is active from March through November. Korea has Severe Fever with Thrombocytopenia Syndrome (SFTS) carried by ticks, which can affect both pets and humans. Ensure your pet is on tick prevention — Simparica Trio or Bravecto (available through your US vet or on Chewy with prescription) are effective against Asian tick species.

Winter (December-February): Temperatures in Seoul drop to -10°C (14°F). Short-haired breeds need coats. The Kurgo Loft Dog Jacket ($35 at PetSmart) provides excellent warmth without restricting movement.

Korean Pet Etiquette

Korean pet culture has some unwritten rules that are good to know:

Always carry waste bags. Korea takes cleanliness seriously. Many parks have bag dispensers, but don’t rely on them.
Keep your dog leashed in public. Off-leash walking is culturally frowned upon outside designated areas and can result in fines of ₩50,000 ($37).
Ask before approaching Korean dogs. Korean pet owners tend to be more cautious about dog-to-dog interactions than Americans.
Muzzle aggressive breeds. As noted above, certain breeds must be muzzled in public spaces by law.
Use pet strollers. Pet strollers are extremely common and socially accepted in Korea — far more so than in the US. They’re practical for navigating crowded subway stations and shopping areas. You can buy one at any Korean pet store for ₩50,000-150,000.

Returning to the US: What You Need for Re-Entry

Many guides about how to bring pet to Korea forget to cover the return trip. Re-entering the US with your pet has its own requirements, and they changed significantly in 2024 when the CDC implemented new dog import rules.

CDC Dog Import Rules (Updated 2024)

As of August 2024, the CDC requires all dogs entering the United States to meet the following conditions:

Must be at least 6 months old
Must be microchipped
Must appear healthy upon arrival
Must have a completed CDC Dog Import Form submitted online before travel
If vaccinated in a country NOT recognized by the CDC (South Korea is in this category), the dog needs a USDA-endorsed export health certificate from a Korean vet AND a valid rabies titer test

The simplest approach: keep your original USDA health certificate and titer test results from your outbound trip. If your return trip is within 6 months and your documentation is still valid, re-entry should be straightforward.

Getting a Korean Health Certificate for Your Pet

If you need a new health certificate for the return journey, visit any APQA-designated veterinary clinic in Korea. The Korean vet will issue an export health certificate, which then needs to be endorsed by APQA’s export division. Budget 3-5 business days for this process and approximately ₩100,000-150,000 ($75-112) in total fees.

Budget Breakdown: The True Cost of Bringing Your Pet to Korea

Let’s talk numbers. Understanding the full financial picture helps you plan a realistic budget for your pet-inclusive Korean adventure.

Expense	Estimated Cost (USD)	Notes
ISO Microchip	$45-75	If not already chipped
Rabies Vaccination	$25-50	At your US vet
FAVN Titer Test	$120-150	Kansas State Lab
Vet Health Exam	$50-100	Pre-travel checkup
USDA Endorsement	$38+	APHIS Form 7001
Airline Pet Fee	$200-400 (cabin/checked)	$800-2,500 for cargo
IATA-Approved Crate	$80-200	Required for checked/cargo
Travel Supplies	$50-100	Bowls, pads, comfort items
Pet-Friendly Hotel Fees	$0-75/night	Varies widely
TOTAL (In-Cabin)	$608-988
TOTAL (Cargo)	$1,208-3,213

These costs may seem steep, but consider that professional pet relocation services charge $3,000-7,000 USD for a door-to-door Korea move. Doing it yourself saves significantly — and this guide gives you everything you need to handle it with confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bringing Pets to Korea

Can I bring my pet on the Korean subway or bus?

Yes, but with restrictions. Small pets in carriers are allowed on Seoul Metro, Busan Metro, and most city buses. The carrier must be fully enclosed (no heads poking out) and small enough to hold on your lap. Dogs over 10 kg are technically not permitted on public transit. Pet strollers with zip-up mesh covers are commonly used and generally accepted. There is no additional fare for pets in carriers.

Is Korea safe for dogs with the history of dog meat consumption?

South Korea officially banned the dog meat trade in January 2024, with a full phase-out by 2027. The cultural shift has been dramatic — a 2025 Gallup Korea poll found that 87% of Koreans oppose dog meat consumption. Modern Korea is overwhelmingly a pet-loving nation, with over 6 million pet-owning households. Your pet will be welcomed and adored. You may even find Korean strangers asking to take photos with your dog, especially if it’s a breed that’s less common in Korea.

How long can my pet stay in Korea without quarantine?

If all your documentation is complete and correct, your pet will not be quarantined at all. Quarantine is only imposed when there are documentation deficiencies or health concerns. Pets entering Korea from the US with a valid titer test, current rabies vaccination, microchip, USDA health certificate, and APQA import permit are released immediately after inspection — typically within 30 minutes of arriving at the APQA counter.

Can I bring my cat to Korea? Are the rules different from dogs?

Yes, you can bring cats to Korea, and the requirements are nearly identical to dogs: microchip, rabies vaccination, FAVN titer test, USDA health certificate, and APQA import permit. The main difference is practical — cats tend to travel better in cabin carriers and are generally easier to transport on flights. Korea is very cat-friendly, with the “고양이” (cat) culture booming. There are cat cafes everywhere, and many accommodations are more welcoming to cats than dogs due to size and noise considerations.

What about emotional support animals (ESAs) or service dogs?

South Korea does not recognize the US concept of emotional support animals. ESAs receive no special treatment for import or public access. However, trained service dogs (장애인보조견) are recognized under the Korean Disability Discrimination Act. Guide dogs, hearing dogs, and mobility assistance dogs are allowed in all public places without restriction. You’ll need documentation from a recognized service dog training organization. Note that airlines may have different policies — check with your carrier about service animal documentation requirements for international routes.

Can I bring exotic pets (rabbits, birds, reptiles) to Korea?

The rules for exotic pets are significantly stricter than for cats and dogs. Birds require a separate import permit from APQA and may be subject to avian influenza testing and quarantine. Reptiles need CITES documentation if the species is protected. Rabbits follow similar protocols to cats and dogs but with different health certificate requirements. Contact APQA directly for species-specific guidance well in advance of your trip.

Ready to Start Planning? Your Pet Deserves This Adventure Too

Learning how to bring pet to Korea might seem daunting at first, but thousands of pet parents do it successfully every year. The key is starting early — ideally 6 months before your trip — and staying organized with your paperwork. Korea’s pet culture is thriving, the infrastructure for traveling with animals is better than ever, and your furry companion will have the time of their life exploring a country that genuinely loves animals.

From the cherry blossom-lined paths of Seoul to the stunning coastal trails of Jeju Island, Korea offers experiences that are even more special when shared with your pet. And who knows — your Golden Retriever might just become a minor celebrity on the streets of Gangnam.

Have you traveled to Korea with your pet? Are you planning to? Drop a comment below with your questions, experiences, or tips. If you found this guide helpful, share it with a fellow pet parent who’s dreaming of a Korean adventure. And don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more pet-friendly travel guides, Korean pet product reviews, and K-culture content delivered straight to your inbox every week.

Safe travels — and give your furry friend an extra treat tonight. They deserve it. 🐾