What is the cat culture like in Korea?

Korea really loves cats, and it shows in the cafe and pet culture. Cat cafes (고양이카페) are everywhere, especially around Hongdae, Gangnam, and university districts; you pay an entry fee that usually includes a drink, roughly 8,000 to 12,000 won, then hang out with the resident cats as long as you like. The etiquette is simple but taken seriously: sanitize your hands or wear the provided slippers, do not wake sleeping cats or pick them up unless allowed, no flash photography, and follow the staff, since the cafes put the cats' comfort first. Many sell little treats so the cats will come to you.

On owning a cat as a foreigner, it is very doable. Unlike dogs, cats are not legally required to be registered in most areas, though microchipping is encouraged and available at any vet. You can adopt from shelters (search 유기동물 입양 or check the government animal protection site), from rescue groups active on Instagram, or through Danggeun Market and pet communities. Supplies are cheap and easy since Coupang delivers litter, food, and everything else fast, and there are dedicated pet stores and apps. Vet care is generally good but paid out of pocket unless you have pet insurance, so it is smart to find a nearby clinic and a 24-hour animal hospital early. One thing to plan for is travel: if you ever leave Korea with your cat, you will need the microchip, rabies vaccination, and export paperwork, so keep records from the start. Overall, cats fit apartment life here really well, and the community of cat lovers is warm and easy to join.