No More Updates on 'Star' Wolf Neugoo for Now... Was the Pressure from Fans Over "Why Feed on the Floor"? Too Much?

As public interest continues in "Neugoo," the wolf that escaped from Daejeon O-World Zoo and was recaptured after 10 days, O-World has decided to temporarily suspend updates about Neugoo.

Wolf Neugoo. Daejeon O-World

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On April 22, O-World announced through its official social media account, "At this time, Neugoo needs a calm and peaceful environment above all else," adding, "We have decided not to take or release any photos or videos of Neugoo for the time being to ensure a complete recovery."

The announcement continued, "We will provide updates again when Neugoo's condition is sufficiently stable and he can comfortably return to his original home," and asked, "Please continue to support Neugoo with warm hearts so he can return to his peaceful daily life."

Previously, as interest in Neugoo increased, O-World shared updates via social media about Neugoo's readjustment after returning to the zoo. In particular, a video posted the previous day showing Neugoo eating drew significant attention, recording about 1.5 million views.

Neugoo. Yonhap News

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However, some online users expressed dissatisfaction with the fact that Neugoo was eating food placed directly on the floor rather than in a bowl, citing concerns about hygiene. In response, O-World explained, "If food is provided in a bowl, the sound of the bowl may make Neugoo reluctant to eat due to his sensitivity. That is why the food was placed on the floor." They added, "This is a natural way for wolves to eat, and it has always been done this way."

Daejeon Urban Corporation, which manages O-World, also stated in a press release, "According to animal welfare guidelines, it is standard practice not to provide separate containers for wild animals like wolves," and further explained, "The location shown in the video is not an ordinary outdoor area, but a special concrete floor that is thoroughly disinfected every day."

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