A recent report released by the Seoul Digital Foundation, affiliated with the Seoul Metropolitan Government, reveals that the ownership of pet dogs is a prevalent aspect of life in Seoul, with one in every ten households being a proud owner. The report underscores the city’s affinity for canine companionship, shedding light on various trends and preferences among Seoulites.
According to the report, there are over 612,000 registered dogs in Seoul, constituting a significant portion, accounting for 17.5 percent of all registered dogs nationwide. With Seoul boasting approximately 4.09 million households, this translates to 14.9 percent of households in the city being home to a furry friend.
The Maltese breed emerges as the undisputed favorite among Seoul’s dog owners, comprising 19.8 percent of the city’s dog population. Following closely behind are breeds such as the Poodle, mixed breed, Pomeranian, and Shih Tzu, collectively representing 62.4 percent of all registered dogs in Seoul.
Unveiling the endearing aspect of pet ownership, the report delves into the naming practices, with “Coco” reigning supreme as the most popular dog name in districts such as Dongdaemun, Mapo, Yangcheon, and Songpa. “Bori” and “Choco” trail behind, showcasing the diversity in naming conventions across different areas of the city.
Gangnam District emerges as the frontrunner in dog ownership, boasting the highest number of registered dogs, with 39,792 furry companions. Following suit are Songpa District and Gangseo District, with 38,005 and 37,800 registered dogs, respectively. Correspondingly, these districts also house the highest number of veterinary hospitals and pet shops, further accentuating the pet-friendly landscape.
In contrast, Jung and Jongno Districts exhibit fewer registered dogs, reflecting a relatively lower inclination towards pet ownership in these areas. Yongsan, Gangnam, and Dobong Districts stand out with the highest ratios of dogs to households, signifying a strong bond between residents and their four-legged friends.
Kang Yo-sik, President of the Seoul Digital Foundation, emphasizes the significance of the report in understanding pet preferences and lifestyle patterns, not only in Seoul but potentially across the entire country. He affirms the foundation’s commitment to providing valuable insights through data visualization, enhancing understanding of Seoul residents’ way of life.
While the report focuses on Seoul, it resonates with broader national trends, as evidenced by survey data from 2022, indicating that one in four South Koreans are pet owners, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs. This cultural phenomenon underscores the integral role of pets in Korean society, serving as companions and confidants to millions across the nation.
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