The new law takes effect on Thursday, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs.

Dog owners could face up to three years in prison or fines up to W30 million if their unleashed pets fatally attack or hurt people (US$1=W1,130).

Owners of typically dangerous breeds like Tosas or Rottweilers will have to take three hours of safety education a year and will be banned from taking their dogs to kindergartens, elementary schools and other public facilities. They will also have to make sure that their pets do not leave their homes unattended.

Those who owned dangerous dogs since before the law was passed have to attend the classes by Sept. 30, and those who acquired them since will have to attend them within six months. For more information www.animal.go.kr.

Those who fail to turn up will be fined W1 million each time.

