Can my cat fly in the cabin to South Korea?

Yes. Korean Air and most international airlines allow cabin pets on flights to South Korea.

Do I need a titer test?

Depends on your origin country. Cats from rabies-free countries may be exempt. Check with APQA for your specific country.

Is Seoul cat-friendly?

Very much so. Seoul has a booming pet culture with cat cafés, pet hotels, and pet-friendly businesses.

Moderate Difficulty

CatAbroad

Complete Cat Import Guide · 2026

South Korea

Vet requirements, airline rules & what to expect at the border

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Import Rules Step-by-Step Cost Quarantine City & Housing Vets & Health Exit Rules Videos FAQ Community Tips

Verified February 2026 · Checked against official government sources

Official Import Rules

South Korea requires an ISO microchip, current rabies vaccination at least 30 days old, a government-endorsed health certificate, and for cats from countries with rabies: a FAVN antibody titer test (≥0. 5 IU/ml).

Cats from rabies-free countries may be exempt from the titer test. An import declaration must be filed with APQA before arrival.

Cats are inspected at the airport quarantine station.

Official APQA (Animal Plant Quarantine Agency) Website

Medical Roadmap

Microchip

ISO 11784/11785 compliant microchip.

Rabies vaccination

Current vaccination required, typically at least 21-30 days before travel.

Health certificate

Issued within 10 days of travel by accredited vet.

Government endorsement

May be required — check with destination authority.

Travel

Arrive at designated port with all original documentation.

Cost Breakdown

MicrochipKRW 30,000–50,000 ($22–36)

Rabies VaxKRW 30,000–50,000 ($22–36)

Titer TestKRW 150,000–250,000 ($110–180, if required)

Health CertKRW 100,000–200,000 ($73–145)

Flight$200–400 (cabin) / $800–2,500 (cargo)

Crate$100–400

Total Estimate$500–1,500 (most countries) / $1,000–3,000 (from high-risk countries)

Quarantine Information

No quarantine if documentation is complete. Cats with incomplete documents may be held for up to 10 days for testing.

City & Housing Tips

Seoul, Busan, and Incheon have excellent pet infrastructure. South Korea has a rapidly growing pet culture — cat cafés are everywhere, pet supplies are abundant. Finding pet-friendly housing is improving but landlords may charge extra deposits.

Vets & Common Parasites

Excellent veterinary care in major cities. Seoul has numerous 24-hour emergency animal hospitals. Korea has a strong veterinary education system. Common parasites: fleas and intestinal worms.

Find Vets in South Korea

Exit Rules — Leaving South Korea

Exiting South Korea requires a health certificate from an APQA-registered vet, endorsed by the local quarantine office. Allow 5-7 business days.

Helpful Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

Community Tips

Quarantine is required in South Korea. Plan ahead and book quarantine facilities well in advance.

Have you moved to South Korea with your cat? Share your experience and help other travellers.

CatAbroad Editorial

Researched by cat lovers with real international relocation experience. Checked against official government sources and updated regularly. Found an error? Let us know.

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