Construction Begins on 35.5 Billion Won Pet Culture Park, the Largest in South Korea

A 241,000-Square-Meter Pet Culture Park
to Be Built in Cheolma-myeon, Gijang-gun, Busan

The largest pet-themed park in South Korea is set to be developed in Gijang-gun, Busan.

On May 28, the Busan Metropolitan Government announced that it has initiated the administrative procedures for the Cheolma Neighborhood Park urban management plan, officially launching the creation of a pet culture park in the Guchil-ri area of Cheolma-myeon, Gijang-gun.

The urban management plan was finalized after a series of steps: a public notice for residents and consultations with related agencies in January and February, a hearing with the city council in March, and a review by the Urban Planning Committee in early May. This comes six months after the plan passed the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's review of the Green Belt (GB) management plan in November last year.

The city plans to invest 35.5 billion won of municipal funds to develop pet-friendly infrastructure on a 241,000-square-meter site, including a dog playground, walking trails, community spaces, and educational facilities. Major features will include the 'Donggam Dullegil' trail, 'Global Theme Garden,' 'Donggam Playground,' 'Pet Education Center,' 'Pet Plant Garden,' and 'Local Market Street.'

Moving forward, the city intends to proceed with establishing the park development plan, detailed design, and securing the necessary budget, with construction to begin as soon as the compensation process is completed. Once completed, the park will host a variety of community events, such as local markets, educational programs, and outdoor weddings.

Park Heongjoon, Mayor of Busan, stated, "As the number of pet owners increases and interest in animal welfare grows, the pet culture park will serve as an opportunity for Busan to become a leading city in pet culture. We will do our utmost to create a space where citizens and their pets can come together."