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Escaped Daejeon Zoo Wolf Recaptured After Nine Days

The case exposes weak points in zoo containment, public warning systems.

Overview

  • Neukgu, a two-year-old wolf that fled Daejeon’s O-World, was tranquilized and captured near an expressway at 12:44 a.m. Friday before being taken back to the zoo.
  • Veterinarians reported normal vital signs and removed a fishing hook from his stomach using an endoscope, and the wolf is now recovering in isolation.
  • The zoo and adjacent theme park remain closed as city leaders apologize for public concern and pledge a reorganization focused on animal welfare and safety.
  • The nine-day search drew hundreds of police, firefighters, and military personnel with drones and thermal cameras, and a nearby elementary school closed as a precaution.
  • An image that appeared to show the wolf at a city intersection was verified as AI-generated, a miscue that authorities acknowledged as they review how they issue alerts.