[The Chosun Ilbo, February 4 2008] Seoul to Require ID Chips for Dogs

People in Seoul who abandon their pet dogs may find themselves in legal trouble. The city of Seoul plans to adopt a measure that will require microchips be embedded in pets so their owners can be easily identified.

The city government said Sunday that the microchips will contain a 15-digit identification number issued to each dog and other information about the dog's owner, color, and breed. This information will be shared by district offices, the Seoul city government and the central government.

The 1 cm-long, 2 mm-thick microchip will be inserted in the dog's neck. Owners will be responsible for having the microchips implanted, which will cost some W19,000 (US$1=W944) at district offices or designated places. If they do not, they will face fines of W200,000.