National Relief as Celebrity Wolf Returns Home Safely

SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — South Koreans breathed a collective sigh of relief after a young wolf that escaped from a local zoo was safely captured following an intense nine-day search operation that captured nationwide attention.

The two-year-old male wolf, named Neukgu, became an unexpected internet sensation after escaping from his enclosure at O-World zoo in Daejeon on April 8. His disappearance quickly sparked widespread concern across social media, with many people anxiously following every update about the animal’s condition and whereabouts.

Authorities confirmed Friday that Neukgu was safely tranquilized and returned to the zoo after rescue teams located him on a hill near an expressway during an overnight operation involving drones, emergency crews, police officers, veterinarians, and rescue personnel.

Massive Search Operation Kept the Country on Edge

Neukgu’s escape triggered one of the most closely watched animal rescue efforts in recent South Korean memory. The wolf reportedly dug beneath the fencing surrounding his enclosure before disappearing into nearby mountainous terrain.

As days passed without a successful capture, public concern intensified. Animal welfare advocates raised questions about whether a zoo-raised wolf could survive in the wild for an extended period. Others feared the animal could be harmed during rescue efforts, recalling a tragic 2018 incident when a puma that escaped from the same zoo was fatally shot.

The nationwide attention became so significant that President Lee Jae Myung publicly addressed the situation, assuring citizens that authorities were doing everything possible to capture Neukgu safely and avoid harming the animal.

Earlier in the week, rescue teams nearly succeeded in cornering the wolf after spotting him near a mountain close to the zoo. However, Neukgu managed to escape the containment perimeter established by emergency workers.

A viral video shared online later showed the wolf calmly trotting along a dark mountain road illuminated by a vehicle’s headlights, further increasing public fascination with the dramatic search.

Wolf Found in Stable Condition

According to city officials and zoo representatives, Neukgu was eventually discovered early Friday morning after an hours-long coordinated search operation.

After being tranquilized, the wolf was transported back to O-World zoo, where veterinarians conducted a full medical evaluation. Officials confirmed that Neukgu was in stable condition and recovering well.

During examinations, veterinarians discovered and removed a fishing hook from the wolf’s stomach using specialized medical equipment. Aside from that issue, doctors reported no major health complications or injuries.

Videos released by Daejeon officials showed rescue workers carefully carrying the sedated wolf from a ditch before placing him into a transport carrier for medical treatment.

Social Media Celebrates Neukgu’s Return

Following confirmation of Neukgu’s safe rescue, social media platforms across South Korea were flooded with celebratory reactions and emotional messages welcoming the wolf home.

Many users posted comments such as “Welcome back, Neukgu” and “It’s safer at home,” reflecting the emotional connection many citizens developed during the rescue mission.

Daejeon Mayor Lee Jang-woo also shared a public statement on Facebook, thanking both local residents and people nationwide for their support throughout the operation.

“I express my deepest gratitude to the citizens of Daejeon and the entire nation for supporting Neukgu’s safe return,” the mayor stated.

Video : South Korean authorities recapture escaped zoo wolf after nine-day search

Wolf Has Rare Genetic Background

Zoo officials revealed that Neukgu was born at O-World in 2024 and comes from a significant conservation bloodline.

He is considered a third-generation descendant of wolves originally brought from Russia in 2008 as part of a conservation initiative designed to restore wolf populations similar to those that once lived in the Korean Peninsula before becoming extinct in the 1960s.

Because of his unique lineage and recent fame, experts believe Neukgu could become one of the zoo’s biggest attractions once the facility reopens to the public.

Zoo Faces Criticism and Security Review

The incident has also renewed criticism toward O-World zoo management, which has faced scrutiny in previous years over multiple animal escape incidents.

Following Neukgu’s disappearance, the zoo temporarily closed operations while officials reviewed safety protocols and enclosure security systems. Management has not yet announced a reopening date.

Lee Kwan Jong, director of O-World zoo, stated that Neukgu will remain separated from other animals while he recovers fully under close veterinary supervision.

The zoo says it is currently reassessing its overall security measures to prevent future incidents and will prioritize the wolf’s health and rehabilitation before reopening the attraction.

Despite the controversy surrounding the escape, Neukgu’s safe return has transformed the young wolf into a national celebrity and a symbol of resilience that captured the hearts of millions across South Korea.