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Neukgu the wolf captured after nine-day search
South Korean authorities successfully recaptured Neukgu, a two-year-old wolf who escaped from a Daejeon zoo, early Friday morning following an extensive search operation.
Capture details
Neukgu was found near an expressway in Daejeon at 00:44 local time (16:44 GMT) on Friday, according to city officials. Rescuers used a tranquilizer dart fired from 20 meters (66 feet) away to subdue the wolf, who was described as moving swiftly during the operation.
A drone monitored Neukgu for approximately six minutes until he reached a stable condition. Video footage released by the Daejeon city government showed rescuers carrying the sedated wolf into a transport carrier.
Health assessment
Upon capture, Neukgu underwent a medical examination, which revealed normal pulse and body temperature. Authorities noted that the wolf had maintained a healthy weight and appeared to have eaten during his time in the wild.
Veterinarians also discovered and removed a fishing hook from Neukgu's stomach through endoscopic surgery. The city government later shared images of the wolf receiving medical care.
Public and official response
Neukgu's escape sparked nationwide concern, with hundreds of rescue personnel deployed to track him down. Earlier attempts to capture the wolf had failed, including a close call on Monday night when he was spotted on a mountain near O-World, the zoo and theme park from which he escaped.
Social media played a significant role in the search, with videos of Neukgu running on roads at night going viral. The wolf's story even inspired a cryptocurrency meme coin, touted by its creators as a symbol of freedom and resilience.
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung publicly expressed hope for Neukgu's safe return in a social media post, while animal rights groups voiced fears about the wolf's survival and potential harm during capture. Those concerns were alleviated with his safe recapture.
Background and concerns
Neukgu was born in 2024 as part of a conservation program at O-World aimed at restoring the Korean wolf, a species now considered extinct in the wild. His escape raised questions about whether a wolf raised in captivity could survive outside.
Similar fears arose in 2018 when Porongi, a puma that escaped from the same zoo, was killed during recapture efforts. Neukgu's safe return has brought relief to supporters and officials alike.
Gratitude from authorities
"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."
Daejeon City Government
