3.5-metre shark trapped in Busan canal draws 600,000 visitors

A 3.5-metre bronze whaler shark, named Bukangi after Busan's North Port (Buk Hang), became an unexpected focal point of public attention after becoming stranded in a narrow artificial waterway at North Port Waterfront Park on September 18, 2026. The shark, believed to have entered the canal while pursuing prey from the open sea, has been unable to navigate back to deeper water. The presence of the trapped animal drew approximately 600,000 visitors to the park between September 19 and September 28, a dramatic increase from the usual daily average of around 2,000 visitors during holidays. During the four-day Chuseok holiday break (Korean Thanksgiving), the park recorded nearly 483,000 visits.

Authorities launched the first rescue attempt on September 29, deploying five coastguard vessels and water pumps to spray jets of water behind the shark in an effort to guide it toward the canal's mouth. The strategy was modelled on a 2004 rescue of a great white shark off Massachusetts. The operation failed when the shark evaded the boats and returned deeper into the canal. Officials suspended the effort after observing the shark's behaviour, noting that it repeatedly swam past or dove to avoid the vessels. The National Institute of Fisheries Science confirmed the shark's activity and respiration remained stable, but cautioned that extended confinement could gradually weaken its stamina and restrict its ability to feed and move.

Busan authorities announced plans for a second rescue operation scheduled for October 2, using a 50-metre custom-made net designed to fit the width and depth of the artificial waterway. The net would be stretched across the waterway by boat to channel the shark toward the exit, with additional water jets sprayed from behind to drive the animal in that direction. Officials stated that releasing the shark to open sea was crucial for its safety and long-term health.

The trapped shark became a cultural phenomenon in Busan. The city's mayor, Chun Jae-soo, expressed admiration for the animal, noting its appeal to visitors. On September 29, Busan's official Instagram account named Bukangi an "Honorary Promotional Ambassador" (also referred to as "Shafluencer"), with 91 per cent of respondents to a city poll supporting the designation. The post garnered over 1.05 million views and more than 10,000 likes. Busan's official mascot, Boogi, was designated to accept the honorary certificate on the shark's behalf. Local residents and tourists expressed emotional attachment to the animal, with some visiting the park to say goodbye before its planned release.