Trapped shark Bukangi draws 600000 visitors to Busan canal as rescue efforts continue A large grey shark trapped in a Busan canal for nearly two weeks has become a local mascot, drawing about 600,000 visitors while officials plan a new rescue attempt using a specially designed net. A large grey shark trapped in a canal in South Korea's biggest port city has become an honorary mascot, drawing about 600,000 visitors to Busan's North Port since counting began Sept. 19. The shark, nicknamed Bukangi, was first spotted Sept. 18 and has been slowly circling the waterway for nearly two weeks. Officials say the shark is about 3.5 metres (11.5 feet) long and has become a social media sensation. Its presence has drawn thousands of tourists, including nearly half a million during last week's Chuseok holiday break, the Korean Thanksgiving, city officials said. Guiding the animal back to open water has proved tricky.Officials Deploy Vessels To Herd SharkOn Tuesday, officials deployed five vessels to the waterway and sprayed streams of water from tanks while attempting to herd the shark toward the open sea. Huge crowds watched on site and the effort was broadcast on YouTube. The crews gave up hours later after the shark repeatedly swam past or dived to avoid the boats, remaining inside the canal.Officials have not detected any clear signs that the shark's health has deteriorated while stuck in the canal, but they still consider its release to the open sea as crucial. Kim Won-ho, a Busan City official, said authorities will make another attempt as early as Friday to free the shark, which experts say is important for its safety and long-term health.Large Nets To Channel Shark To SeaThe state-run National Institute of Fisheries Science is producing a specially designed net 50 metres (54 yards) long or bigger to be stretched across the waterway by boat to channel the shark toward the exit. Another boat will spray water from behind to drive the shark in that direction, according to tentative plans, Kim said. He added, We are adapting our response to the situation on site.The shark now shares the Korean name for the city's North Port, where it was first spotted. Busan Mayor Chun Jae-soo said in a statement, Bukangi has naturally become a new part of Busan's story with the interest and love of the city's people. The animal's presence has turned the North Port Waterfront Park into a gathering spot for spectators, including those photographed watching the shark on Tuesday, Sept. 29, 2026.The rescue effort involves coordinating multiple boats and a large net to guide the shark out of the canal. Officials remain focused on returning the shark to open water, citing the importance of its safety and long-term health. Another attempt is expected as early as Friday, with crews ready to adapt their approach based on conditions at the site.