Yongin Imposes Fines Up to 1 Million Won for Feeding Pigeons and Wild Animals
People caught feeding pigeons and other designated wild animals in prohibited urban zones across Yongin face fines reaching 1 million won, hankyung.com reported. The city government said it is conducting a survey from the 6th of last month through the 11th of next month on resident damage caused by feeding pest wildlife, covering public parks, areas around light-rail stations, apartment complexes, and busy commercial districts where related complaints are frequent.
Repeated feeding in specific locations draws dense flocks of wild animals, leading to heavy accumulations of droppings, windblown feathers, unpleasant odors, and soiled public facilities. To curb these issues, the city plans to establish strict feeding bans under an ordinance on feeding prohibited wild animals that took effect this year.
City Plans Feeding Ban Enforcement by Next Spring
Officials are using the ongoing survey to identify target locations for feeding prohibitions in consultation with relevant municipal departments. The city will issue administrative notices to gather community feedback before officially designating the exact boundaries, locations, and restricted behaviors by March of next year.
Intensive public awareness campaigns and advisory warnings will roll out next April. Field inspections and direct enforcement actions across the designated zones are scheduled to begin in May.
Penalties for Unauthorized Feeding
Under the relevant municipal regulations, individuals caught feeding nuisance wildlife inside the designated restricted zones face a tiered penalty structure. First-time offenders receive a 200,000 won fine, which increases to 500,000 won for a second violation, and hits 1 million won for a third offense and beyond.
Debate Over Urban Wildlife Restrictions
Choi stated that those findings cannot be directly applied to domestic urban environments in South Korea, casting doubt on the scientific basis for broad legislative restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Yongin’s Wildlife Feeding Ban
Which areas in Yongin are targeted for the new feeding bans?
The city is targeting public parks, light-rail station surroundings, apartment complexes, and densely packed commercial neighborhoods that generate frequent resident complaints regarding nuisance wildlife.
When will the fines take effect for violators?
Following public notices and administrative procedures scheduled through March, the city will run awareness campaigns in April and launch official field inspections and enforcement in May.
What are the exact penalty amounts for feeding wildlife in prohibited zones?
First-time violators face a 200,000 won fine, repeat offenders receive a 500,000 won penalty, and anyone caught a third time or more is fined 1 million won.
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