Busan Rescuers Return Trapped Dusky Shark to Sea After 34 Days

Rescuers in Busan successfully guided a 3-meter-long female dusky shark out of a coastal canal and back into the open sea on Wednesday evening, October 21. The operation concludes a 34-day saga that turned the animal into a national sensation and drew massive crowds to the city’s waterfront.

The shark, nicknamed “Bukangi” by local residents, had been confined to the artificial waterway at Busan’s North Port since September 18. Wednesday’s operation marked the third rescue attempt by authorities, following failed efforts on September 29 and October 2. During the second attempt, the shark managed to evade capture by leaping over a 50-meter net barrier.

The third rescue attempt utilized specialized floating platforms and nets to herd the animal safely.

A Tactical Breakthrough

To prevent a repeat of previous escapes, the rescue team deployed a new strategy on Wednesday. Workers used a floating pontoon platform and specialized nets to herd the shark toward the canal’s exit. Staff members were stationed atop the pontoons using oars to create a physical and visual barrier, effectively preventing the shark from jumping over the net as it moved toward deeper water.

Once the shark reached the mouth of the canal, it was guided into the open sea. Busan Mayor Chun Jae-soo expressed relief following the successful release, describing the shark as a temporary symbol of the city and thanking the public for their interest in its safety.

The ‘Bukangi’ Sensation

The presence of the large predator in such a visible, urban setting triggered an unprecedented wave of “shark tourism.” According to the Busan Infrastructure Corporation, more than 1.6 million visitors traveled to the North Port Waterfront Park over the last month specifically to catch a glimpse of the animal. The phenomenon provided a boost to local vendors, though it also raised significant concerns among marine biologists.

Experts from the National Institute of Fisheries Science had warned that the shark’s health was at risk the longer it remained in the canal. During its month-long stay, observers noted no signs of the shark feeding, and there were growing fears that falling autumn water temperatures would become life-threatening. Dusky sharks are typically found in warmer tropical or subtropical waters and are currently classified as an endangered species.

Environmental Implications

While the immediate rescue was celebrated by onlookers, scientists and climate activists have noted the broader environmental context of the event. The appearance of a dusky shark so far north is being linked to rising sea temperatures around the Korean Peninsula.

Research suggests that sea temperatures in the region have risen by approximately 0.7°C over the last decade. This warming trend is believed to be altering the migratory patterns of various marine species, drawing tropical predators into coastal waters where they were previously rare. The successful release on Wednesday ensures the shark has reached deeper, more stable waters before the onset of winter temperatures.

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