- Pet-friendly restaurants now require compliance to facility standards and guidelines -

Incheon Metropolitan City (Mayor Yoo Jeong-bok) announced that the Pet Friendly Restaurant Policy officially took effect on March 1, 2026.

As pet ownership continues to grow and social norms continue to shift, the policy was introduced to address hygiene and safety concerns. Under the new system, restaurants in Incheon can now allow pets on site. The change is expected to support a new dining culture where pet owners and non-pet owners can share the same spaces.

Businesses planning to operate pet-friendly restaurants must meet facility standards and comply with business guidelines. For stable operation, business owners can apply for a pre-consultation through sanitation departments in corresponding counties and districts.

As regular patrons and visitors with pets will be in the same space, pet-friendly restaurants must maintain strict hygiene standards and follow safety rules. Restaurants must also clearly indicate whether pets are allowed, helping customers choose a space that suits their needs.

More information is available on the official website of Incheon Metropolitan City. From the outset, Incheon will conduct targeted inspections and provide on-site guidance to minimize confusion. The city will also continue promoting and managing efforts to help establish a proper pet-friendly dining culture.

Shin Byung-cheol, Director of the Incheon Health and Welfare Bureau, stated, “The project is expected to make outings more convenient for pet owners, while also creating an environment where people can spend an enjoyable time with their pets at restaurants. We also hope residents will work together to build a culture where pets, people, and different types of users can coexist.”

Incheon plans to continue strengthening preparation and support from the early stages of the implementation, helping a safe and enjoyable dining culture take root where pets and people can coexist.