Seoul isn’t just a paradise for K-pop fans and foodies—it’s also a haven for pet parents! With Korea’s booming pet culture, the city offers countless specialty stores catering to every furry, feathery, or scaly need. As an expat or traveler, navigating these shops can be overwhelming. Worry not! Here’s a curated list of foreigner-friendly pet stores where quality meets convenience.
1. Pawz in Itaewon
📍 Location: Itaewon-dong, Yongsan-gu (near Itaewon Station Exit 3)
🐾 Why Foreigners Love It:
Pawz feels like home for English speakers. Staff are fluent in English and specialize in imported brands (like Blue Buffalo, Royal Canin) often hard to find elsewhere. Their “expat aisle” stocks international pet treats, flea treatments, and travel carriers. Bonus: They offer doorstep delivery via app and host adoption events with local shelters.
2. MungMung Story (멍멍스토리) in Gangnam
📍 Location: Gangnam Station Area, 2nd floor of Kyobo Tower
🐾 Standout Features:
Think “pet boutique meets tech hub.” This sleek store offers organic Korean brands (check out “The Black Dog” for grain-free kibble), smart feeders, GPS trackers, and even designer pet apparel. Need advice? Use their multilingual tablet kiosk for product info in English/Japanese. Don’t miss the DIY pet treat bar!
3. Pet Garden (펫가든) in Hongdae
📍 Location: Hongik University Street (near Exit 9)
🐾 Vibe & Variety:
A one-stop-shop for trendy pet parents. From handmade bandanas to eco-friendly toys, Pet Garden blends K-cute aesthetics with practicality. Their “Pet Cafe” section lets you sip coffee while your pup plays in a supervised indoor park (₩10,000/hour). Tip: Visit weekdays—weekends get packed!
4. The Bite (더바이트) in Seongsu
📍 Location: Seongsu-dong (Seoul’s “Brooklyn” near Konkuk University)
🐾 For Holistic Pet Care:
This minimalist store focuses on natural wellness. Find cold-pressed raw food, herbal supplements, and biodegradable litter. Staff speak basic English and provide free nutrition consultations. Grab a free sample of their bestselling salmon oil!
5. Choco’s Pet Shop (초코스펫샵) in Jamsil
📍 Location: Lotte World Mall, 5th Floor
🐾 Tourist Perks:
Conveniently located near Lotte World Tower, this store excels in travel essentials. Snag TSA-approved carriers, collapsible bowls, and K-quarantine-compliant health certificates. They ship globally—ideal for souvenirs like hanbok-style pet outfits!
Foreigner Tips ✨
- Payment: Most shops accept foreign cards, but carry ₩50,000 cash for small vendors.
- Delivery: Use apps like Coupang (English version) for heavy items (e.g., litter).
- Etiquette: Leash pets indoors; some stores provide free disposable carriers for tiny pets.
- Discounts: Flash your Alien Registration Card (ARC) for member deals at chains like Pet Garden.
Seoul’s pet scene is as dynamic as the city itself—whether you’re prepping for adoption or spoiling your fur baby, these shops ensure you (and your pet) feel welcome. Happy shopping! 🐶🐱🛒
(P.S. Most metro lines allow pets in carriers—check Korail’s pet policy before riding!)