Move over, K-pop stars! Busan has a new celebrity — and this one has fins!
Meet Bukangi (부캉이), a wild shark that unexpectedly appeared at Busan’s North Port Waterfront Park on September 18, 2026.
What started as a surprising wildlife sighting quickly became a nationwide sensation, attracting curious visitors and taking Korean social media by storm.
And here’s the incredible part: Nearly 1.35 million people visited the park in less than a month!
Who knew a shark could become such a superstar?
Who Exactly Is Bukangi?
Bukangi got its adorable nickname from “Bukhang,” the Korean name for Busan’s North Port.
But don’t let the cute name fool you!
Marine researchers identified Bukangi as a female dusky shark, measuring approximately 3 meters (nearly 10 feet) long.
The species is classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List, making this unusual appearance even more remarkable.
Despite attempts by authorities to guide the shark back to the open sea, rescue efforts had not succeeded as of the latest reported updates.
Meanwhile, Bukangi has become an unexpected local celebrity, with visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of its dorsal fin.
The Shark That Attracted 1.35 Million Visitors
According to the Busan Facilities Corporation, approximately 1.35 million people visited North Port Waterfront Park between September 18 and October 11, 2026.
During the October 9–11 holiday weekend alone, the park welcomed around 205,000 visitors.
Families, couples, and curious tourists have gathered along the waterfront, hoping to photograph Busan’s most unusual celebrity.
For many, seeing a wild shark swimming in an urban waterway is an unforgettable experience!
Where Can You See Bukangi?
Want to catch a glimpse of Busan’s newest superstar?
Bukangi was spotted in an artificial waterway at Busan North Port Waterfront Park (부산 북항 친수공원), conveniently located near Busan Station.
Location & Google Maps
Location: Busan North Port Waterfront Park
Address: 164 Isunsin-daero, Dong-gu, Busan, South Korea
Korean: 부산광역시 동구 이순신대로 164
📍 View Bukangi’s Location on Google Maps
🚶 Walking Directions from Busan Station
How to Get There:
Take the KTX or subway to Busan Station, then follow the walking directions to North Port Waterfront Park.
Once there, look for the designated public viewing areas near the artificial waterway.
Sightings have been reported around several pedestrian bridges, particularly bridges 4, 5, and 6.
Important: Bukangi is a wild shark, so sightings are never guaranteed. Its location may change at any time.
Quick Visitor Information
- Place: Busan North Port Waterfront Park
- Google Maps: View Location
- Directions: From Busan Station
- Latest Sightings: bukangi.com
Editor’s Note: Information reflects reports available through October 16, 2026. Bukangi’s current location and condition may change.