Title: South Korea to Implement Mandatory Horse Registration and Welfare Monitoring Center by 2026
SEOUL, April 30 (Korea Bizwire) — In a major policy shift to improve animal welfare and oversight, the South Korean government announced Tuesday that it will establish a horse welfare monitoring center and introduce mandatory horse registration starting in 2026.
The Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs unveiled its five-year plan (2025–2029) aimed at enhancing horse welfare and preventing abuse amid a growing equestrian and horse-breeding industry.
The move comes in response to mounting reports of mistreatment and neglect, which have drawn increasing public scrutiny.
Under the plan, the Korea Racing Authority (KRA) will host a new Horse Protection Monitoring Center beginning next year. The center will be tasked with receiving abuse reports, offering rescue and rehabilitation services, and conducting on-site inspections of horse-keeping facilities. Whistleblowers who report abuse will be eligible for monetary rewards to strengthen enforcement.
In tandem, the government will push legislation to implement a mandatory horse registration system, replacing the current voluntary reporting system. Officials believe this measure will allow for more comprehensive oversight across the life cycle of horses, enabling targeted welfare support at each stage of development.
The ministry also plans to integrate welfare metrics into its annual horse industry survey and to distribute standardized care manuals tailored to the animal’s age and condition. Retired racehorses will be supported in their transition to riding horses, and injured horses will receive rehabilitation assistance.
To incentivize high welfare standards, a new horse welfare certification program will be introduced. Facilities with strong welfare practices will receive preferential treatment in government support programs, while those falling short will be subject to field consultations and improvement mandates.
Additionally, horse welfare content will be added to official certifications for trainers and rehabilitation riding instructors. Participation in government-funded horse industry programs will be restricted for individuals who fail to complete required welfare training.
To ensure inclusive policymaking, the ministry will establish a public-private advisory council including government agencies, the KRA, horse industry workers, and animal rights organizations. The council’s recommendations will be incorporated into South Korea’s next five-year master plan for equine industry development.
