Despite a law enacted two years ago to ban animal contact experiences, illegal practices persist in South Korean zoos. Recent studies reveal that many facilities continue to engage in reckless animal handling, offering experiences such as petting and feeding that create unnecessary stress for the animals. The Animal Welfare Institute, along with members of the National Assembly, convened to discuss the management and improvement of zoos, unveiling concerning data on the expedient nature with which some facilities avoid compliance with regulations.

The comprehensive report assessed 21 registered zoos and 9 unlicensed facilities, focusing on adherence to the 'Act on the Management of Zoos and Aquariums' that was revised and implemented in 2023. This law prohibits any activities causing unnecessary distress to animals for entertainment, except where an educational plan is proposed. However, findings indicated a widespread disregard for established guidelines, with most zoos offering experiences that contradict their submitted educational plans. In fact, 20 of the 21 accredited zoos were reported to sell foods for animal feeding experiences without limitations, undermining the legislative intent of protecting animal welfare.

Moreover, the discussion pointed out that only a few facilities genuinely adhered to their educational commitments, employing programs that aim to teach about species characteristics and conservation. The majority instead endorse handling and feeding practices that raise ethical concerns regarding wildlife management and welfare. Attendees at the forum debated the necessity of stricter regulations and better oversight to ensure that zoos cannot exploit legal loopholes, emphasizing that 'ecological education' should not come at the expense of animal suffering.