Lee Jae-myung, the Democratic Party of Korea presidential candidate, stated on the 21st that he would introduce a standard payment system for animal hospitals to make Korea a "advanced country in animal welfare." He also said he would prohibit animal breeding for a certain period in cases of animal abuse.
The candidate noted on that day on Facebook that "more than 1 in 4 citizens live with pets" and stated, "We will create a culture where people and animals coexist harmoniously, making a happy advanced country in animal welfare," and announced a pledge containing this content.
This includes ▲ introduction of a standard payment system ▲ introduction of a prohibition on animal breeding ▲ expansion of support for animal welfare certified farms ▲ enactment of the Animal Replacement Testing Activation Act, among others.
The candidate said, "Animals should not be viewed merely as subjects of protection, but should be recognized as beings deserving respect for their health, nutrition, safety, and characteristics from a life cycle perspective," and stated, "To integrate dispersed animal-related duties, I will enact the 'Basic Animal Welfare Act' and promote the establishment of the 'Animal Welfare Promotion Agency.'"
He added, "Veterinary costs account for an average of 40% of the monthly raising expenses," and stated, "I will introduce a standard payment system and establish standard medical procedures to reduce the burden of medical expenses." He also plans to expand the exemption of value-added taxes levied on medical expenses.
He also proposed measures to prevent animal abandonment and abuse. The candidate stated, "I will introduce a 'prohibition on animal breeding' system for those guilty of animal abuse" and added, "We will regulate illegal breeding grounds and similar protective facilities, as well as restrict the operation and promotion of profit-making businesses disguised as shelters."
He further stated, "I will provide direct payments to farms that implement welfare guidelines for livestock by type, supporting the transition to sustainable livestock farming," and noted, "I will enact the 'Animal Replacement Testing Activation Act' to reduce the sacrifice of laboratory animals."
Kim Moon-soo, a People Power Party candidate, also announced pet-related pledges on the same day. The pledges include ▲ standardization of all medical service items ▲ mandatory disclosure of veterinary medical records and costs ▲ support for veterinary expenses, feed costs, and pet insurance enrollment fees for adopted abandoned animals.