Gyeonggi Province leads in animal Welfare with Innovative ‘Companion Maru’ Facility
Gyeonggi Province is setting a new standard for animal welfare with the opening of ‘Companion Maru’ in Yeoju, a extensive facility designed to support companion animals throughout their lives. Governor Kim Dong-yeon recently toured the complex, highlighting the province’s commitment to both animal wellbeing and the burgeoning pet industry.
On Thursday, November 4th, Governor Kim visited Companion Maru as part of his ongoing people’s Livelihood Economy field tour. He inspected the facility’s operations and engaged with adoptive families, underscoring the importance of responsible pet ownership.
“After taking office as governor, we established the first Animal Welfare Department in Korea,” Governor Kim stated. “I wanted to create a facility were not onyl abandoned dogs but also general dogs could run around freely and spend the end of their lives with dignity.”
Companion Maru, which opened in 2023, aims to provide a holistic approach to animal care, offering services ranging from adoption and play to education and end-of-life care. The 164,932㎡ complex features a cultural center, protection and adoption building, memorial hall, and a dedicated playground. A new pet funeral facility is slated to begin operations in January of next year.
Governor Kim emphasized Gyeonggi Province’s leadership role, stating, “Gyeonggi Province is leading the way not only in responding to the climate crisis and the social economy, but also in animal welfare.I hope that residents will recognize the meaning of these efforts and spend happy time with their pets.”
During his visit,the Governor also explored the facility’s convenience features,including a dog sports playground completed in July. He observed agility training and participated in a special lecture on dog grooming. He also toured the pet industry exhibition and promotion center, which opened in September, to assess support for small and medium-sized businesses and start-ups in the sector.
The Governor concluded his visit with a meeting involving trainees, adoptive families, volunteers, and representatives from the pet industry, gathering feedback and insights.
Companion Maru’s commitment to animal welfare has already garnered recognition. Both the Yeoju and Hwaseong centers received a commendation from the Minister of Agriculture, food and Rural Affairs at the ‘1st Animal Protection Day’ celebration last September for their contributions to promoting adoption and improving the welfare of protected animals.
the facility is actively promoting the protection and adoption of abandoned animals, operating an animal hospital, and providing cultural education and events for companion animals and their owners. This multifaceted approach positions Gyeonggi Province as a leader in animal welfare.
Why: Gyeonggi Province sought to improve animal welfare and support the growing pet industry.
Who: Governor Kim Dong-yeon spearheaded the initiative, with the province government and Companion Maru staff implementing the project.
what: The province opened ‘Companion Maru,’ a comprehensive animal welfare facility offering adoption, care, education, and end-of-life services.
How did it end?: The facility is currently operational,receiving commendation for its work and planning to open a pet funeral facility in January. The Governor concluded a visit on November 4th, gathering feedback for continued advancement.
