Stranded Shark in Busan Becomes Tourist Phenomenon, Attracts 600,000 Visitors

Busan, South Korea — A large shark that has been stranded in a narrow canal in the northern port city of Busan for nearly two weeks has transformed into an unexpected tourism draw, attracting approximately 600,000 visitors. City officials have affectionately dubbed the creature “Bukangi,” a nickname derived from Buk Hang, the Korean term for Busan’s North Port.

The shark was first observed in the waterway on September 18. While reports on its exact species vary, experts suggest it is likely a type of requiem shark, potentially a bull shark or a bronze whaler. It measures roughly 3.5 meters, or about 11 feet 6 inches, in length.

The animal’s presence has generated significant economic and promotional benefits for the city. Mayor Chun Jae-soo noted that the publicity provided by the stranded predator would have otherwise cost the municipality “trillions” in advertising. This sentiment was reflected in market activity, with shares in Pinkfong Company, the studio behind the global hit “Baby Shark,” rising by approximately 7% at one point.

Local media also reported a surge in sales of shark-shaped ice creams at nearby vendors. In response to the animal’s popularity, city authorities held a social media poll where 91% of participants voted in favor of appointing the shark as an honorary ambassador. The city has officially bestowed this title upon it.

The stranding has captivated the public during the recent Chuseok holiday. Busan reported nearly 500,000 visitors to the waterfront park over the four-day weekend, a dramatic increase from the typical weekend average of around 2,000. The influx of tourists has also spawned false rumors online, including AI-generated content and unverified claims of a second shark or even offspring.

Efforts to return the shark to the open sea have faced challenges. Earlier this week, the South Korean Coast Guard deployed vessels to spray jets of water behind the animal, attempting to guide it toward the ocean. However, the shark evaded the streams without heading in the desired direction. Reports indicate that authorities are planning a new attempt using nets to herd the animal out.

This incident marks the latest in a series of animal-related viral moments in South Korea. It echoes the excitement from April, when a young wolf named Neukgu escaped from a zoo and spent nine days at large before being recaptured. The event also draws comparisons to the recent frenzy in Germany over a beached humpback whale nicknamed “Timmy” after the Timmendorfer Strand beach where it was found.