No. Owning a kangaroo in South Korea is prohibited under the Wildlife Protection and Management Act (Wildlife Act), enforced by the Ministry of Environment. Exotic pet ownership is tightly controlled, requiring special permits for non-native species, which kangaroos do not qualify for. Violations may result in fines up to ₩50 million or imprisonment.
Key Regulations for Owning a Kangaroo in South Korea
- Wildlife Act Compliance: Kangaroos are classified as “wildlife requiring protection,” barring private ownership without a conservation permit, which is nearly impossible to obtain.
- Local Ordinances: Seoul Metropolitan Government and other local authorities impose additional restrictions, requiring exotic pet owners to register with municipal animal control units.
- 2026 Compliance Shifts: The Ministry of Environment plans stricter enforcement in 2026, targeting illegal exotic pet trade with increased inspections and penalties.
Exotic animal ownership in South Korea is governed by the Wildlife Act and Animal Protection Act, both administered by the Ministry of Environment and local governments. Kangaroos, as non-domesticated species, fall under the highest protection tier, prohibiting private possession. The Wildlife Protection Management Plan (2024–2028) explicitly lists kangaroos as prohibited species, aligning with international CITES regulations. Permits for “scientific or educational purposes” require approval from the National Institute of Biological Resources (NIBR), a process with stringent criteria. Unauthorized possession risks confiscation under the Animal Protection Act, with offenders facing administrative fines or criminal charges. The 2026 amendments to the Wildlife Act will further criminalize breeding or trading kangaroos without state authorization.