Dr. Lee Dong Won/ Myeongji Animal Hospital/ Busan, Korea
Veterinarian Spotlight #23:
Dr. Lee Dong Won
We are delighted to introduce Dr. Lee Dong Won as our featured veterinarian for this issue. Since 2012, Dr. Lee has founded and operated Myeongji Animal Hospital in Busan, cultivating it into a cornerstone of community care. Rather than limiting himself to a single specialty, he has practiced as a general practitioner, encountering diverse patients and situations. He has consistently strived to create a warm animal hospital that both owners and animals trust and seek out.
Bio：
- Intern, Seoul Darae Animal Hospital
- Associate Director, Suwon Duri Animal Clinic
- Chief Veterinarian, Busan Munhyeon Pet Friends
- Director, Myeongji Animal Hospital (2012 – Present)
Q1 : How would you introduce yourself in 3 words
Integrity: A commitment to sincerity and ethical principles in every aspect of treatment and client consultation, forming the foundation of trust.
Empathy: The heart that seeks to understand not only the animal’s feelings but also those of its owners.
Dedication: A wholehearted devotion to continual growth and the long-term mission of providing care, reflected in the sustained operation of the hospital.
Q2 : At what age, did you decide to become a vet?
I’ve loved animals since I was young, but I decided to become a veterinarian around my sophomore year of high school when I was choosing my career path. After that, I became determined to genuinely help both companion animals and their owners, which led me to choose to become a companion animal clinician.
Q3 : What do you like the most about being a vet?
It is the quiet anticipation each morning, wondering which precious lives I will connect to. The greatest fulfillment comes from offering sincere care during difficult times—whether through medical treatment or simple comfort—and knowing that our time together leaves a positive, lasting memory for both the pet and the owner.
Q4 : One sentence that describes your value as a vet.
“To safeguard the everyday life of pets and their owners through integrity in practice and warm compassion.”
This sentence has been the guiding principle of my hospital from its very beginning.
Pets at Myeongji Animal Hospital
Q5 : Can you share one memorable moment in your career as a vet?
The memories that resonate most deeply are of journeying with patients through their entire lifetimes—from their first breaths, through the vibrancy of youth, into gentle old age, and to a peaceful farewell. The heartfelt gratitude shared by owners in those moments remains a profound source of reflection and reminds me of the true privilege of this profession.
Q6 : What is your expertise (pursuing focus)?
My focus is on being a dedicated general practitioner. I believe the greatest value I can offer comes from a breadth of clinical experience, allowing me to provide thoughtful, personalized care that fits the unique needs of each individual animal and their family.
Q7 : Please share a specific case or scenario where you used CardioBird and describe how it helped you.
A 6-year-9-month-old Pomeranian patient presented with coughing symptoms. The owner believed it was ‘just a simple cough’ and felt additional testing was unnecessary. I explained in detail that the CardioBird test is a very simple and quick procedure, and conveyed that it enables a clearer evaluation. Using the test results as evidence, I was able to persuade the owner of the need for additional tests to confirm the diagnosed abnormality. Ultimately, the patient was diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension and is now doing well under appropriate management.
CardioBird provided solid, objective evidence. This foundation allowed me to explain the necessity of further testing to the cautious owner, build trust, and ultimately pave the way for accurate treatment for the patient. CardioBird is an excellent tool that enables confident, evidence-based care grounded in scientific rationale.
Q8: Surely you have a dream. What do you hope to accomplish through your career or in life?
My aspiration is one of steady, meaningful growth—both as a veterinarian and as an individual—finding a harmonious balance between the art of healing and the responsibilities of hospital stewardship. I hope to use my accumulated knowledge and skills, paired with genuine communication, to contribute more deeply to the shared well-being of pets and the people who love them.
