Gangwon Province has unveiled its new animal welfare policies with a commitment of 25 billion KRW aimed at ensuring the welfare of pets and wildlife. This initiative includes four main strategies focusing on the elimination of pet euthanasia, enhancement of animal welfare infrastructure, fostering a mature pet culture through public-private collaboration, and improving animal medical services combined with industry and tourism-related welfare initiatives. This comprehensive approach marks a critical shift towards more humane treatment of animals in the region.

To achieve zero euthanasia for abandoned animals, the province plans to invest 23.2 billion KRW. This funding will be utilized to construct and modernize seven animal protection centers, along with establishing new adoption centers in high foot-traffic areas. Furthermore, a dedicated adoption center for stray cats will be launched. The expansion of these services speaks to the province's commitment to decreasing the number of abandoned animals and finding them loving homes.

In addition, the province is allocating 11.5 billion KRW towards advancing animal medical services and creating synergies with local tourism through pet-friendly initiatives. This includes the establishment of a public veterinary hospital offering emergency services during off-hours and the promotion of pet-friendly certification programs. Officials from Gangwon Province emphasized the importance of collaboration among public entities, relevant organizations, and private sectors to ensure successful execution of these policies, creating a balanced partnership for animal welfare efforts in the region.