Shark named Bukangi returns to South Korean canal after failed rescue attempts
The popular marine creature, affectionately nicknamed by locals, was guided out of the canal on Wednesday but reappeared the following day.
A popular shark, affectionately nicknamed Bukangi, has returned to a canal in Busan, South Korea, just a day after a complex, hours-long operation to guide her back to open waters.
Rescuers spent more than eight hours on Wednesday guiding the approximately three-meter-long (10ft) shark with a net towards a harbor, cheered on by hundreds of onlookers. This was the third attempt to relocate Bukangi, who had become an unofficial mascot for the city, drawing over 1.6 million visitors to the area. Despite the efforts, she was spotted lingering in the canal again by Thursday.
Authorities had hoped the female shark would return to sea after being led out of the canal. Concerns had been mounting for Bukangi's well-being, as she appeared to be injured and was not eating. There were also worries that falling water temperatures could further weaken her.
It is believed that Bukangi may have been attracted to the canal by unusually warm waters and an abundant food supply. Experts suggest that with the sea temperatures rising annually, Busan could see more sharks in its waterways in the future. Bukangi's presence had provided a significant boost to Busan's tourism, with the city embracing her popularity.