Celebrity Shark Bukangi Returns to Busan Canal After Brief Rescue

A dusky shark in South Korea, affectionately nicknamed Bukangi, has made a surprising comeback to the Busan canal she previously called home for a month. Her return occurred barely a day after local authorities announced they had successfully guided the animal out to open waters.

Bukangi became an unexpected viral sensation after taking up residence in the southeastern port city’s canal last month. During her stay, the three-metre-long shark attracted over 1.6 million visitors, serving as an unofficial mascot and boosting local tourism.

However, officials and animal welfare advocates grew increasingly concerned for the shark’s health. Videos shared widely on social media showed Bukangi with a bloodied snout, and reports indicated she was refusing to eat. Experts believe unusually warm waters and an abundance of fish initially lured her into the canal, though warming seas could lead to more shark sightings in the region.

On Wednesday, a marathon livestreamed rescue operation lasting over eight hours finally managed to herd Bukangi past a net into the open harbor, drawing cheers from hundreds of gathered fans. Despite these efforts, the shark broke through a barrier and returned to the canal mouth by the following morning, prompting officials to schedule a fresh relocation attempt.

Read the full story on Nile Post.