Busan moves to secure trademark rights for viral waterfront shark

When a shark estimated at around two meters in length — believed to be a bronze whaler or dusky shark — drifted unannounced into the harbor off Busan’s North Port, it transformed almost overnight from a surprise guest into a viral mascot for Korea’s second-largest city. Now, municipal officials are stepping in to ensure that the unlikely local celebrity remains a public asset rather than a corporate cash cow. The city government said Friday that it will file trademark applications this month for "Bukangi," the affectionate moniker bestowed upon the shark currently frequenting the North Port Waterfront Park. The decision comes after officials discovered five unauthorized trademark applications filed by a private individual on Sept. 21. The private claims seek exclusive commercial rights over the name in both Korean and English, alongside design graphics covering roughly 40 product categories, including keychains, plush toys and apparel. While trademark filings do not grant automatic rights under Korean law, city administrators warned that a private registration could severely res