Traveling with pets is on the rise in South Korea.

More and more families in South Korea are taking their pets on holiday trips, reflecting a shift in how people view pets as members of the family.

Many pet owners in South Korea are willing to travel with their pets - Photo: YONHAP

During the Chuseok holiday (Korean Mid-Autumn Festival), 35-year-old Ms. Kwon planned a fall camping trip to Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi Province, with her husband and their 6-year-old dachshund dog, Malrang.

"Malrang is a member of the family, so of course it will come with us," she shared with the Korea Times . Malrang has visited 19 countries and has become a "professional traveler."

For Kwon, finding pet-friendly restaurants, cafes, and accommodations is just as important as her sightseeing activities.

According to the South Korean Ministry of Agriculture , Food and Rural Affairs, 28.6% of households currently own pets, meaning that one in four households lives with a pet.

Instead of leaving their pets with neighbors or hotels as they used to, more and more people are choosing to travel with them.

Lee, 28, who adopted a dog earlier this year, purchased a travel package to Jeju Island with discounts at pet-friendly attractions and restaurants.

"It's very convenient because I don't have to bother searching each place individually," Lee said.

Capitalizing on this trend, South Korean travel companies quickly launched "petcation" packages – vacations for pets – including private sleeping accommodations, specialized amenities, and photography services. A 5-day, 3-night tour to Da Nang (Vietnam) for travelers with pets quickly sold out and even had a waiting list.

Local authorities are also actively supporting this new trend. On October 11th, Daejeon City will host the "Dangdang Run"—a marathon for dogs. Participants will receive dog treats and souvenirs, attracting tourists who want to create memories with their pets.

Ahn, 37, signed up to participate along with her two dogs, Misong and Arong. "I want to spend quality time with them during the long holiday," she said.

Since 2023, Taean County in South Chungcheong Province has been designated a "pet-friendly tourist city" and has received 250 million won (approximately $180,000) in support over four years.

Locals also designate October as "Dog Month in Taean," with many pet-themed programs. A highlight is the "Mission Tour," which offers a refund of up to 100,000 won (approximately $71 USD) for groups staying at least one night and participating in pet-related tourism activities.

Pets are like family.

According to experts, the surge in pet tourism reflects changes in family structures and holiday habits in South Korea.

"Pets are no longer seen as assets but as members of the family," commented Professor Kim Jong Gi of Tongmyong University.

"Vacations with pets have now become a central part of family experiences, driving the growth of the pet industry towards improving the quality of life for both people and pets."

HA DAO

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/du-lich-cung-thu-cung-len-ngoi-o-han-quoc-20251006120434808.htm