The shark known as 'Bukan,' which became a local attraction at Busan's North Port, has vanished, but experts suggest it may be recovering its health.
According to relevant authorities, Bukan has not been spotted since October 27, as monitored by the National Fisheries Research Institute.
Bukan was first discovered on September 18 in an artificial waterway at the North Port's waterfront park. It remained in the waterway for 33 days before being guided out by authorities on October 21.
After leaving the waterway, it was seen near Pier 1 and the International Passenger Terminal, but it has not been sighted since October 27.
Experts are paying attention to the recent sharp drop in water temperature. When Bukan was first discovered, the surface temperature of the water in front of the North Port was about 25 degrees Celsius, but it fell below 20 degrees on October 28. The optimal habitat temperature for the blacktip shark, to which Bukan belongs, is known to be between 18 and 26 degrees Celsius.
Choi Yoon, an emeritus professor of marine biology at Gunsan University, analyzed that as the water temperature dropped, Bukan likely moved to deeper waters where it is warmer, resulting in fewer appearances at the surface.
Considering Bukan's movement patterns, it is possible that it is lingering near Pier 7 or has already ventured into the open sea beyond the North Port.
There is also a possibility of health recovery. During its time in the artificial waterway, Bukan was found to have injuries on its fins, and there were no observations of it feeding.
In contrast, the open sea provides a more favorable environment for finding prey, such as mullet, and allows for freer movement. Professor Choi also emphasized the likelihood that Bukan has been recovering its health through feeding since leaving the waterway.
Bukan's current location and health status remain unconfirmed. The National Fisheries Research Institute has ceased regular field monitoring since October 30 and will check locations based on citizen reports.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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