[The Hwankyung Ilbo] A measure will be implemented to strengthen the current registration system for zoos and aquarium facilities with a permit system in order to define the qualifications necessary for the operation of a zoo or aquarium facility. Rep. Lee Yong-deuk of the Democratic Party of Korea proposed a revised bill on the Act on the Management of Zoos and Aquariums.

This bill is intended to supplement the deficiencies of the current Act on the Management of Zoos and Aquariums. In the definition of zoos and aquariums, 'biodiversity conservation' is specified and the function of conservation and research is emphasized.

The registration system, which allows anyone to run a zoo or aquarium under the current law, is changed to a permit system in which only state-approved facilities can run a zoo or aquarium.

It also includes provisions to require the government to prepare guidelines for its use in the review, operation and management of zoos and aquariums.

“As two years have passed since the Zoo Act was enforced, the parts that are passively promoted at the time of the enactment of the bill are exposed as problems in reality,” Rep. Lee Yong-deuk said. “The welfare problems of animals raised in poor conditions and the escape of predators have created enough public consensus on the need to revise the current law.”

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