A Korean court has sentenced a dog owner to prison after an unleashed greyhound ran into a cyclist, causing a crash that led to the cyclist’s death.


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⚖️ Court & Sentence

Court: Uijeongbu District Court

Charge: Violation of the Animal Protection Act

Sentence: 1 year and 10 months imprisonment



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🧾 What Happened?

Date: May 24, 2024

Location: Along Jungnangcheon Stream, Uijeongbu

The defendant was walking a 2-year-old greyhound.

The dog was not leashed, in violation of safety requirements.


The unleashed dog suddenly ran toward a passing electric bicycle.

The 50-year-old cyclist lost balance.

He fell and suffered severe head injuries.

After one week in intensive care, he died from brainstem compression.



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🚨 Owner’s Conduct After the Accident

The court emphasized what happened next:

Instead of immediately aiding the victim,

The owner left the scene,

Claiming to be chasing the fleeing dog,

Without providing sufficient emergency assistance.


This failure to take proper rescue measures became a major factor in sentencing.


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🧠 Court’s Reasoning

The court stated:

Owners of registered animals have a strict duty to prevent harm when outside.

Failing to leash the dog directly resulted in the fatal accident.

The owner did not:

Reach a settlement with the victim’s family.

Provide adequate post-accident assistance.


The victim’s family strongly requested severe punishment.


The court concluded that the defendant’s responsibility for the death was serious and warranted imprisonment.


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📚 Legal Significance

This case underscores:

Leash requirements are not minor administrative rules.

Failure to control a large dog can result in criminal liability when death occurs.

Post-accident conduct significantly affects sentencing.


It also reflects increasing judicial emphasis on owner responsibility in animal-related accidents.

Article: https://www.joongang.co.kr/article/25406234