For many Americans, and especially families connected to military service or international business, South Korea has become a frequent destination. If you’re a dog owner, one of your first questions is probably: Can I take my dog with me to Korea?
The short answer is yes. South Korea allows dogs to enter the country, but the process is more complex than booking your own flight. From airline restrictions to quarantine inspections, every detail matters. At Alaska Dog Works, we know that traveling with your dog is more than logistics, it’s about ensuring your canine companion is safe, comfortable, and set up for success in a new environment. That’s why we’re excited to expand our training programs to South Korea under Seoul Dog Works, so families moving abroad can have ongoing professional support.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you need to know about bringing your dog to Korea and how to prepare for the transition.
Understanding Korea’s Pet Import Rules
Unlike some countries, South Korea does not have a blanket ban on specific breeds. That’s good news if you own a larger or less common breed. However, the Korean Animal and Plant Quarantine Agency (APQA) strictly regulates how dogs enter the country.
Required Documentation
Before boarding your flight, you’ll need to prepare:
ISO-compliant microchip: Your dog must be microchipped with a 15-digit ISO 11784/11785 compliant chip.
Health certificate: Issued within 10 days of travel by a USDA-accredited veterinarian, certifying your dog is healthy and fit to fly.
Rabies vaccination certificate: Dogs must be vaccinated at least 30 days prior but not more than one year before travel. Puppies under 90 days old may be exempt.
Rabies antibody test (if applicable): Some situations may require proof of rabies antibody titers, especially for dogs from high-risk countries.
Arrival Process
Upon arrival in Korea, your dog will be inspected by quarantine officers at the airport. If all paperwork is in order, you may be cleared within a couple of hours. If there are issues, such as missing documents or non-compliant vaccinations, your dog may be placed in quarantine for up to 21 days at your expense.
Airline Considerations
Even though Korea itself doesn’t restrict breeds, airlines often do.
Some carriers prohibit snub-nosed breeds (like bulldogs, boxers, and pugs) because they’re more vulnerable to respiratory distress. Others have size limits for in-cabin travel, meaning larger dogs must fly in the cargo hold.
Since you’re likely flying long-haul (for example, from Alaska or the mainland U.S. to Incheon International Airport), comfort and safety become critical. Airlines like Korean Air, Asiana, Alaska Air Group, and some U.S.-based carriers have clear pet transport guidelines, always check in advance and book early, as space is limited.
At Alaska Dog Works, we recommend crate training your dog well before travel. Familiarity with their crate reduces stress during long flights and helps them rest comfortably.
Preparing Your Dog for International Travel
Flying across the Pacific is no small feat, for humans or dogs. The key is preparation.
Crate Training and Conditioning
Your dog will spend several hours in a crate, either in the cabin or cargo. Crate training months before travel ensures your dog views the crate as a safe place, not a punishment. Practice feeding meals inside, letting them rest with the door closed, and gradually extending time spent inside.
Physical Health
Schedule a full check-up with your vet. Make sure vaccinations are current, parasite prevention is in place, and your dog is in good condition for travel. Older dogs or those with medical conditions may need special considerations.
Mental Readiness
Dogs feed off your energy. If you’re anxious, they’ll feel it. Keep routines as normal as possible leading up to travel, provide exercise before departure, and use positive reinforcement throughout the journey.
At Alaska Dog Works, our Peak Performance Membership and now Seoul Dog Works programs include real-time coaching and support for travel readiness. We help clients practice crate time, reinforce calm behavior, and build resilience in new environments.
Life With Your Dog in Korea
Once you’ve landed and cleared quarantine, the adventure begins. But what’s it really like to own a dog in South Korea?
Pet-Friendly Culture
South Korea has seen a dramatic rise in dog ownership in the last decade. Cafés, parks, and even apartment complexes are increasingly dog-friendly. While small breeds are more common in cities like Seoul, larger dogs are becoming more accepted.
Housing Considerations
If you’re relocating for work or military service, confirm pet policies before signing a lease. Some apartments restrict dogs above a certain size. For military families, base housing guidelines vary, but many families live off-base with pets.
Veterinary Care
Korea has excellent veterinary services, with clinics in most urban areas. However, language barriers can complicate care. That’s where having ongoing support through programs like Seoul Dog Works can make a difference, we connect you with trusted resources and provide coaching tailored to your situation.
Special Considerations for Military Families
Military relocation is one of the most common reasons Americans move to Korea with dogs. Unfortunately, many families face tough decisions about whether they can bring their pets.
With airline space limited and quarantine rules strict, some families rehome dogs before relocating. At Alaska Dog Works, we believe this doesn’t have to be the case. With preparation, documentation, and guidance, most families can successfully bring their dogs with them.
That’s why Seoul Dog Works is designed with military families in mind. We’ll be in-country four times a year for mini-group and one-on-one sessions, while also offering live video coaching twice a week, including one session scheduled specifically for Korea’s time zone.
Partnering With Rebel Rescue
Another exciting aspect of our Seoul expansion is our partnership with Rebel Rescue, an organization dedicated to giving dogs a second chance. Many adoptees need specialized training to thrive in new homes, especially when adjusting to city life in Seoul. Through this partnership, we’ll extend our expertise in therapy and service dog training to help both families and dogs succeed.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
To recap, here are key steps to ensure your dog’s move to Korea goes smoothly:
Start the process early, at least six months before departure.
Confirm airline restrictions for your breed and crate size.
Get microchip and vaccinations updated.
Obtain a USDA-accredited health certificate.
Crate train well before the flight.
Pack comfort items (blanket, toy, familiar-smelling bedding).
Prepare for quarantine inspection upon arrival.
Enroll in ongoing coaching through programs like Seoul Dog Works to help your dog adapt to life abroad.
How Alaska Dog Works and Seoul Dog Works Can Help
Moving internationally is stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Alaska Dog Works, we’ve spent more than 20 years helping families train and travel with dogs in challenging environments. From navigating Alaska’s ferries and backcountry trails to crossing the Pacific, we understand what it takes to prepare both dogs and their humans.
With the launch of Seoul Dog Works, we’re bringing that expertise directly to Korea. Our membership-based programs go far beyond one-off training. We provide:
Real-time coaching before, during, and after your move.
Mini-group sessions in Seoul, offered at discounted rates for members.
One-on-one training for families who need specialized support.
Community support to connect you with other dog owners navigating the same challenges.
In Closing…
So, can you take your dog to Korea with you? Yes, but success depends on preparation. With the right planning, documentation, and support, your dog can join you abroad and continue to thrive.
Whether you’re relocating for work, military service, or personal adventure, Alaska Dog Works and our new Seoul Dog Works program are here to help you every step of the way.
Ready to start your journey? Schedule a strategy call with us today to learn how we can prepare you and your dog for a seamless transition to life in South Korea.
We offer a FREE Strategy Call.
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