A 2-year-old male wolf named Neukgu was recaptured in Daejeon, South Korea, after spending nine days on the run following his escape from a local zoo. The animal was found near a highway interchange about 2.5 miles from the zoo and was tranquilized by a veterinarian before being safely returned to the facility.

Zoo officials said Neukgu was in stable condition, with normal vital signs, though veterinarians removed a fishing hook from his stomach during a health check. The zoo and its associated theme park had been closed during the search and will reopen after safety measures are reviewed.

Neukgu had apparently escaped by burrowing under a fence, prompting a large-scale search involving more than 100 personnel and drones equipped with thermal imaging cameras. His disappearance captured national attention, drew online support, and even inspired a cryptocurrency meme coin, while local and national leaders called for improved animal welfare and public safety measures.