Seoul is turning three weekends in October into a celebration of animals, bringing dog walks, canine sports competitions, live music and adoption events to parks across the city in an effort to promote responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. The Seoul Animal Happiness Week runs from Oct. 17-31, with events at Yeouido Hangang Park, World Cup Park’s Peace Plaza and Oil Tank Culture Park in Sangam, according to the Seoul Metropolitan Government. The opening weekend, Oct. 17-18, features the Animal Happiness Festa at Yeouido Hangang Park, where 500 teams of dogs and their owners are expected to take part in a group walk along the Han River. Other activities include a showcase celebrating families who have adopted abandoned dogs, an adoption event called Pimki Red Carpet and interactive programs highlighting the welfare of companion, farm, wild and laboratory animals. The following weekend, Oct. 24-25, Seoul Petlympics will bring dogs and their owners together for competitions at World Cup Park, with events designed for beginners as well as experienced handlers. Activities include a 4-