A city in South Korea seeks new ways to free a huge gray shark after it slips back into canal

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — The port city of Busan, South Korea, is exploring new methods to release a large dusky shark from a narrow canal after it escaped captivity on Thursday, despite previous attempts. The shark, named Bukangi, was first herded out of the canal the day prior by workers who used a floating platform to push it out but it returned hours later.

The unconventional rescue involved dozens of workers maneuvering a floating platform through the canal in an effort to free the 3-meter-long female dusky shark. However, the shark swam beneath a barrier net installed on the platform and entered the canal once again. Now, Bukangi is trapped between two nets, about 50 meters into the canal's mouth, and officials are discussing ways to guide it out as it continues to circle the small patch of water.

Lee Gwang-seok, an official from the Oceans and Fisheries Ministry, said Bukangi is unlikely to pass through more barriers due to the dense nets and narrow waterway, and falling water temperatures could pose health risks. Busan authorities, who made Bukangi a city mascot, say the shark drew over 1.7 million visitors to the canal during its month-long stay.