Shark Stays Trapped in Busan Canal for Three Weeks Despite Rescue Efforts
A shark named Bukang-i has remained stuck in a narrow canal at Busan's North Port for nearly three weeks, despite multiple rescue attempts by local authorities.
Since September 18, a shark dubbed Bukang-i has been confined in a narrow artificial waterway at Busan's North Port, attracting more than a million onlookers. Early efforts by maritime police to drive the creature out were halted when it refused to leave, prompting the city to organize a rescue. On September 29, the Coast Guard deployed five vessels and sprayed water streams, but the shark evaded them and the operation was stopped after five hours.
A second attempt on the following Friday used a 50-meter net, which became lodged on the canal floor and did not coax the shark away. Daily health checks by the National Institute of Fisheries Science have so far revealed no major problems, though officials worry prolonged confinement could weaken the animal.
Why it matters
The incident highlights challenges of wildlife rescue in urban settings and draws massive public attention to marine conservation.
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