The number of households with pets has increased by토토사이트 160,000 in the last two years to more than 5.5 million.
With one in four households owning a pet, the average cost of medical treatment for a pet over two years is nearly 800,000 won, but only 12 per cent of households have pet insurance due to the high cost of premiums.
Bae Jun-woo is a reporter.

Reporter]
On the weekend, many citizens went for a walk with their dogs.

They play ball with their dogs on the lawn and have a good time.

▶ Standing: Bae Jun-woo / Reporter

• “There were 5.52 million households with pets, 160,000 more than two years ago, with 71 per cent owning dogs and 27 per cent owning cats.”

While the number of pets has increased to the point where one in four households own a pet, the cost of ownership is a burden.

On top of the 150,000 won per month for food and treats, veterinary bills can reach an average of 800,000 won.

▶ Interview: Seohyun Kim / Yangpyeong-dong, Yeongdeungpo-gu, Seoul

• “I’m paying a lot of money because I cancelled my subscription, and I’m paying about 800,000 won every 18 months, including spaying and neutering.”

Only 12 per cent of households have pet insurance due to high premiums and low coverage and amount.

Interview: Eunsam Cho / Mokdong, Yangcheon-gu, Seoul

• “I don’t trust how much insurance covers. It’s good to have, but I don’t trust it yet, so I’m using my savings to cover it.”

In order to promote pet insurance, there were many opinions that a standard fee system should be introduced to improve the situation where each hospital charges different fees.

While the government is pushing for an exemption from VAT on pet medical expenses, it is pointed out that structural measures are needed, such as the introduction of a standardised fee system and reduction of treatment costs, which is a pledge of President Yoon.