As the companion animal population in Korea surpasses 15 million, the pet industry is undergoing a profound transformation. Care for companion animals is no longer limited to basic “pet care.” Instead, pets are increasingly treated as family members who share the same lifestyle standards as humans.
At the center of this shift is a rapidly emerging concept: Eco-Health. Rather than relying solely on chemical treatments or artificial interventions, pet guardians are turning toward environmentally conscious, sustainable, and preventive wellness approaches. Eco-friendly health care is quickly becoming a new standard in the companion animal industry.
Launching a New Professional Pathway: Foliumist
Responding to this industry-wide transformation, PDIK – the Korea Phyto Design Institute has announced a new partnership with the Green Medicine Association of New Zealand (GMANZ). Together, they are launching a professional training program designed to cultivate next-generation experts in companion animal eco-health.
The program introduces a new professional identity: Foliumist.
The International Foliumist (IFT) program is an internationally aligned education pathway that prepares professionals to guide eco-friendly health and wellness practices for companion animals, combining scientific understanding with nature-based solutions.
A Future-Oriented Profession
As the companion animal industry evolves toward sustainability and holistic well-being, the role of the Foliumist is gaining recognition as a future-oriented professional pathway.
The International Foliumist program serves as the Pre-Professional stage of the International Veterinary Herbalist Pathway (IVH Pathway), offering learners a structured route from foundational eco-health expertise to advanced professional practice.
In an era where nature, science, and compassion must coexist, the Foliumist represents a new kind of professional—one who helps companion animals live healthier lives by reconnecting care with the intelligence of nature.