Shark Trapped in Busan Canal Draws 600,000 Visitors 2026

A large shark trapped in a South Korean city canal has become an unlikely tourist attraction, drawing more than 600,000 visitors to a waterfront park in Busan. The 3.5-metre bronze whaler shark, nicknamed Bukang-i after Busan's North Port, was first spotted in the narrow waterway on 18 September.

Shark Trapped in Busan Canal: How It Happened

Experts believe the shark followed prey from the sea into the canal and could not find its way out. The coastguard attempted to drive it out on the day it appeared but suspended the operation six hours later on the advice of scientists who warned that forcing the animal could harm it or make it aggressive.

On Tuesday morning, coastguard boats sprayed jets of water behind the shark to push it towards the canal's mouth, a method modelled on the rescue of a great white shark trapped in shallow water off Massachusetts in 2004. The first attempt failed after the shark slipped past the boats and swam back into the canal.

Public Safety and Tourism Impact

The national institute of fisheries science said the shark was stable, but officials noted its ability to feed and move was restricted, which could weaken it the longer it stayed. The operation was suspended again on Tuesday afternoon because the shark was showing signs of stress.

Despite the rescue efforts, the shark's presence has drawn huge crowds. More than 600,000 people are estimated to have visited the waterfront park since the shark was first spotted. Local businesses have reported a surge in visitors, with some vendors selling shark-themed merchandise.

Comparison of Shark Rescue Attempts

Key Takeaways

• The shark has been trapped for over a week.
• Over 600,000 visitors have flocked to see it.
• Rescue attempts using water jets have so far failed.
• Experts warn the shark may weaken if not freed soon.

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