Wolf Escapes South Korean Zoo, Found Safe After Nine Days
A wolf named Neukgu, who made headlines after escaping from a South Korean zoo, has been safely captured and returned. Neukgu escaped on April 8 from O-World zoo in Daejeon, located south of Seoul. His adventure lasted nine days and captured the attention of many.
During the search, people across the country expressed concern for the two-year-old wolf, especially following an unfortunate incident eight years ago when a puma was shot shortly after escaping from the same zoo. Surveillance footage showed Neukgu on several occasions, including once near a highway almost three miles away from the zoo.
He was finally recaptured shortly after midnight on Friday, thanks to a tranquilizer gun used by a veterinarian. After a health assessment, zoo officials confirmed Neukgu was in good shape but had a fishhook removed from his stomach.
Neukgu is part of a breeding program aimed at increasing the population of Korean wolves, which are now considered extinct in the wild. This wolf is the third generation brought to South Korea from Russia to help restore the species.
Daejeon Mayor Lee Jang-woo thanked everyone involved in the recovery effort on social media and assured the public that measures will be taken to enhance animal welfare and safety at the zoo.
The extensive search involved thermal drones and tracking efforts, after Neukgu previously managed to elude capture in an earlier attempt. The wolf’s escape became a source of fascination for many South Koreans, with some even dubbing him the “honorary ambassador for the zoo.” He also inspired a meme-based cryptocurrency.
Following Neukgu’s return, his supporters flooded social media with welcoming messages, highlighting the concern for his safety. South Korean President Lee Jae Myung expressed hope for a peaceful resolution during the escape, praising the coordinated efforts of police, firefighters, and military personnel.
As of now, O-World zoo remains closed while reviewing its security protocols. It has faced scrutiny after a series of other animal escapes, prompting a brief closure of a nearby elementary school during Neukgu’s time on the loose. Zoo officials have stated that Neukgu will be separated from other animals until he fully recovers, though they have not indicated when the zoo will reopen.
