No, ferret ownership is prohibited under South Korea’s Wildlife Protection and Management Act (Wildlife Act), enforced by the Ministry of Environment (MOE). The law classifies ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) as invasive species, banning their import, breeding, and private possession. Violations may result in fines up to ₩10 million or imprisonment under the Act on the Prevention of Ecosystem Damage by Invasive Alien Species.
Key Regulations for Owning a Ferret in South Korea
- Absolute Ban: Ferrets are listed as invasive alien species under MOE’s 2023-2026 Invasive Species Management Plan, prohibiting all domestic ownership.
- Strict Penalties: Enforcement under the Wildlife Act includes confiscation of animals and criminal charges for illegal possession, with recent 2024 amendments increasing fines by 30%.
- No Exemptions: Even licensed zoos or research facilities require MOE permits, and ferrets are excluded from the 2025 Exotic Pet Permit pilot program due to ecological risks.
Local ordinances in Seoul and Busan further restrict exotic pet trade, with municipal animal control units collaborating with MOE to conduct inspections. The 2026 Invasive Species Act expansion will tighten import controls, closing loopholes for ferret trafficking. Prospective owners must verify compliance with the Act on the Protection and Management of Wildlife before considering alternatives like domesticated rabbits or chinchillas.