A more than 3-meter-long shark has drawn crowds to a waterfront park in Busan, South Korea, after being spotted twice in the area. The shark was first seen around 8:57 a.m. on September 18 in a waterway near North Port Waterfront Park. It was spotted again the following day at about 1:05 p.m. The Korea Coast Guard reportedly sent boats and a rescue team to guide the shark toward open water, but the operation was later suspended after the National Institute of Fisheries Science warned that forcing the shark away could provoke defensive or aggressive behavior. According to The Korea Times, authorities believe the animal is a basking shark, a species found in the Pacific, Atlantic, and Indian oceans, including waters around the Korean Peninsula. Basking sharks are generally not considered a threat to humans, but officials have urged people not to approach the animal. The shark sighting has turned the waterfront into a popular tourist attraction, with residents and visitors gathering with phones and cameras to catch a glimpse of the rare visitor. Social media posts have described the area as "the hottest place in Busan right now." Busan mayor Jeon Jae Soo commented on social media, saying, "Many people must have been surprised. It is believed that the shark came to North Port in search of food, as warm-water fish have become more common in the area due to climate change." He added that the city plans to continue developing North Port into a beautiful sea where diverse species can coexist. He encouraged people to visit and enjoy the area, saying it will become part of Busan’s future as a maritime capital. Authorities have also taken responsibility for safety in the area. On Sunday, some social media posts claimed the shark was spotted again, but local media said these claims could not be verified. Some videos circulating online have been identified as AI-generated. To ensure public safety, authorities have increased safety measures and urged people not to approach the water or lean over barriers. The city has also sent text alerts asking residents to remain cautious and stay away from the water’s edge.