Introduction
Seoul isn’t just a bustling metropolis for humans—it’s increasingly welcoming to pets! As a foreigner, navigating the city with your dog or cat can be smooth if you know where to go. From parks with off-leash zones to cafes serving puppuccinos, here’s your ultimate guide to pet-friendly Seoul.
🌳 1. Parks & Outdoor Spaces
- Yeouido Hangang Park: A riverside paradise with dedicated dog runs. Bring waste bags (provided at entrances) and enjoy sunset walks.
- Seoul Forest: Massive green space with pet-friendly trails. Leashes required, but “Pet Playground” zones allow off-leash fun.
- World Cup Park: Offers fenced areas for small/large dogs. Tip: Avoid weekends if your pet dislikes crowds.
☕ 2. Pet-Friendly Cafes
- Bau House (Hongdae): Iconic dog café! Your pup plays freely while you sip coffee (entrance fee: ~₩10,000).
- Gyeridan Cat Café (Itaewon): Chill with resident cats in a foreigner-friendly area. No personal cats allowed here.
- Café Mung (Multiple locations): “Human-only” seating AND separate play zones for dogs. Menu includes dog treats!
🍽️ 3. Restaurants & Eateries
- The Royal Food & Drink (Haebangchon): Rooftop views with pet-friendly terraces. Korean fusion dishes—try the kimchi fries!
- Plant Café (Itaewon): Vegan spot welcoming leashed pets. Water bowls provided.
- Note: Most indoor restaurants ban pets, but look for “반려동물 동반 가능” signs or terraces. Apps like Mangoplate filter pet-friendly options.
🛍️ 4. Shopping & Services
- Lotte World Mall (Jamsil): Leashed pets allowed in designated areas (carriers recommended for elevators).
- Emart Traders (Yangjae): Pet superstores with supplies, grooming, and vet clinics—all under one roof!
- Gangnam Terminal Underground Center: Pet fashion boutiques and organic treat shops.
🏨 5. Pet-Friendly Stays
- Lotte Hotel Seoul: Luxury option with pet beds, walking services, and a “Pet Concierge.”
- GLAD Mapo: Budget-friendly; allows medium dogs for a small fee. Near Hongdae’s parks.
- Always book ahead—some hotels restrict pet size/breed.
⚠️ Essential Tips for Foreigners
- Leash Laws: Mandatory in public (max. 2m length). Fines apply for violations.
- Transport: Subways allow small carriers (off-peak hours only). Taxis/Kakao T require driver approval—message via app first!
- Etiquette: Always clean up waste. Avoid temples/palaces (pets prohibited).
- Emergency Vets: Search “24시 동물병원” (24-hour clinics). Recommended: Seoul Animal Medical Center (English-speaking staff).
Final Woof
Seoul’s pet scene keeps growing—join Facebook groups like “Seoul Pet Lovers” for real-time updates. With this guide, you and your companion are ready to conquer the city! �💕
Got questions? Drop them in the comments!