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South Korea coastguard tries freeing trapped Busan whaler shark

By Drooid · Sep 30, 2026, 11:26 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Coastguard Rescues Shark

South Korea’s coastguard is working to free a 3.5-metre bronze whaler shark trapped in a Busan canal.
On 29 September the coastguard sprayed water jets to push the shark toward the canal mouth, but it slipped back.
Scientists say the shark remains stable, yet limited feeding and movement could weaken it if confinement continues.
A city Instagram poll showed 91 % support and officials named Bukang-i an honorary “Shafluencer” ambassador.

Summary

Pinkfong Shares Surge

Local vendors reported a surge in shark-shaped ice-cream sales after the shark’s arrival.
Pinkfong Company shares rose about 7 % during the shark hype.
Mayor Chun Jae-soo said the shark’s fame could save the city “trillions” in publicity costs.
YouTube livestream of the rescue drew thousands of online viewers, extending the shark’s popularity nationwide.

History

Historical Context

Founded by volunteers in 1972, Clearwater Marine Aquarium first gained notice rescuing Sunset Sam in 1984. When the two-month-old dolphin Winter was freed from a crab trap on December 10 2005, the center partnered with prosthetist Kevin Carroll and Hanger Inc. to fit her with a silicone tail, prompting worldwide media, two feature films, and raising the aquarium’s profile.

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Coastguard Rescues Shark

South Korea’s coastguard is working to free a 3.5-metre bronze whaler shark trapped in a Busan canal.
On 29 September the coastguard sprayed water jets to push the shark toward the canal mouth, but it slipped back.
Scientists say the shark remains stable, yet limited feeding and movement could weaken it if confinement continues.
A city Instagram poll showed 91 % support and officials named Bukang-i an honorary “Shafluencer” ambassador.

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