"Neukgu Becomes an Internet Star"... Flood of AI-Generated Parody Images

'Neukgu Meme' Goes Viral Through AI-Generated Images
Public Interest Surges After Zoo Escape

Neukgu, a wolf from Daejeon O-World who was captured ten days after escaping from the zoo, has become the center of attention among netizens. So-called "Neukgu memes," which humorously depict Neukgu, are being widely shared. All of these images have been created using generative artificial intelligence (AI).

AI-generated images related to Neugoo. Screenshot from an online community.

On April 17, numerous images of Neukgu memes were posted on online communities and social networking services (SNS). These Neukgu memes are composite images featuring Neukgu, produced with generative AI.

For example, one image shows Neukgu holding a welding tool and melting the zoo’s wire fence. In reality, Neukgu reportedly escaped by digging under the zoo’s wire fence.

Screenshot of online community

There was also an image likening Neukgu’s escape to the Iran crisis. In a composite headline reading "Breaking! Neukgu Breaks Through the U.S. Hormuz Strait Blockade and Escapes," Neukgu is depicted breaking past a U.S. Navy maritime blockade.

Another popular image shows the escaped Neukgu holding a guitar and singing in front of a microphone. There is also a meme portraying the captured Neukgu appearing on a famous variety show to share his "escape tips."

Screenshot of online community

Meanwhile, at approximately 9:18 a.m. on April 8, Neukgu dug under the O-World safari wire fence and exited the zoo. As news reports detailed the process from Neukgu’s escape to his capture, public interest in Neukgu has continued to rise.

On April 17, Lee Gwanjong, director of O-World, stated at a briefing, "According to the initial medical examination at the animal hospital, Neukgu’s health is relatively good, and there were no abnormalities in the blood test."

He added, "I would like to thank the relevant agencies for their efforts to ensure Neukgu’s safe return, as well as the citizens who actively provided information and expressed concern. Neukgu will be protected in a separate area within the zoo until he has fully recovered and stabilized."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.