Busan to make third attempt to guide Bukang-i back to sea

Authorities deploy nets, pontoons and divers as experts warn the shark's health may be deteriorating

Busan authorities will make a third attempt Wednesday afternoon to guide a shark out of a canal at North Port Waterfront Park as concerns grow over its health.

The operation follows reports that Bukang-i has not been eating and has shown signs of injury and unusual behavior. Temperatures are also expected to fall sharply from Thursday, raising concerns that colder water could further weaken the shark.

In footage shared by canal visitors, the shark's right pectoral fin appears damaged, and reports have also described it striking the canal wall.

Preparations to guide Bukang-i back to sea began Tuesday, including a survey of the canal entrance and work with nets and pontoons.

Busan city said the plan is to move a net attached to the pontoons toward the open sea in stages, then block Bukang-i from returning to the canal. Drones will track the shark's movements, while divers check underwater obstacles and the net. Specialists will monitor its behavior and health and adjust the operation if they see signs of distress. The city also plans to restrict access to the work area and increase safety patrols.

The two previous attempts on Sept. 29 and Oct. 2 failed. During the second attempt, the net snagged on the canal bottom, halting the operation before Bukang-i could reach the sea. The following day, the shark crossed a barrier net during high tide and went farther into the canal.

Bukang-i, a roughly 3-meter-long Dusky shark, was first spotted in the canal on Sept. 18. More than 1.6 million people have visited the park since the shark's arrival, according to local reports.