What Happened to the Escaped Zoo Wolf? Neukgu Found Safe After 9 Days on the Run
A two-year-old wolf that escaped from a zoo in South Korea has been safely captured after a dramatic nine-day search that captivated the nation and drew concern from the country’s president.
The wolf, named Neukgu, escaped from the O-World zoo in Daejeon on April 8 after burrowing under the fence of his enclosure, according to the Associated Press. His disappearance triggered an extensive search operation involving police, military personnel, drones and veterinarians.
A Search That Gripped a Nation
Authorities deployed drones, traps and search teams across mountainous areas near the zoo as the hunt stretched on for days. At one point, Neukgu was spotted on a nearby mountain but managed to escape after nearly being contained within a perimeter set by rescue workers. A driver also recorded video of the wolf running along a dark mountain road.
The case drew widespread public attention in South Korea, with concerns raised about the wolf’s safety during the search. Even South Korean President Lee Jae Myung addressed the situation publicly, expressing hope the wolf would be captured safely.
Neukgu’s Capture
Authorities located Neukgu in the Anyeong-dong area and captured him early Friday after an hours-long search, according to city and zoo officials.
He was tranquilized from approximately 20 meters — about 66 feet — away. Authorities said Neukgu was “moving very fast” and was monitored via drone after sedation. It took about six minutes before he entered a “stable” condition, according to BBC.
Daejeon officials released video showing rescuers retrieving the sedated wolf from a ditch and placing him in a carrier. He was then returned to the zoo.
Neukgu’s Condition
Veterinarians examined Neukgu after his return and found he was in stable condition. Authorities said he “hadn’t lost much weight” and “looked like he had eaten,” per BBC.
However, a fishing hook was discovered in his stomach and removed using endoscopic surgery. No other significant health issues were identified.
Lee Kwan Jong, director of O-World, said Neukgu will be kept in a separate area and monitored until he fully recovers.
Neukgu, a male wolf born in 2024, is a third-generation descendant of wolves brought from Russia in 2008 as part of a conservation effort to restore wolves similar to those that once lived in Korea before going extinct in the wild in the 1960s.
His escape and the public’s emotional response underscored the significance many South Koreans placed on his safe return.
What Happens Next
The O-World zoo temporarily closed following the escape and is reviewing its security measures. Officials have not announced when it will reopen.
Following the capture, the Daejeon city government wrote on social media:
“Thank you to everyone who worked hard to bring Neukgu home.”
“To everyone who worried about Neukgu’s safety and cheered us on, thank you all so much.”
This article was created by content specialists using various tools, including AI.
