The November 8 broadcast of SBS's "Animal Farm" revealed the entire process of Lucky being released into the waters off Jeju Island after seven years. The episode drew a warm response, recording a viewership rating of 4.8% and peaking at 5.6% (based on Nielsen Korea's metropolitan household standard).
Found on the Jeju coast seven years ago, Lucky suffered severe injuries, with its esophagus exposed and its carapace heavily damaged. Although its life was saved through the dedication of veterinarian Hong Won-hee and the medical team, the turtle had to undergo surgery seven times due to recurring inflammation and a mass on the back of its neck.
Having grown accustomed to human contact after years of living in a tank, Lucky underwent a test to evaluate its wild instincts before the release. Following close care from aquarists and a move to a spacious tank, Lucky proved its instincts remained sharp by successfully hunting live fan lobsters and swimming crabs in succession. It also swam leisurely in a large tank alongside sharks and rays, receiving final approval for release.
On the day of the release, Lucky arrived at a beach overlooking Jeju's Seongsan Ilchulbong. Once placed on the sand, it headed into the incoming waves without hesitation. Veterinarian Hong Won-hee, who had cared for Lucky for seven years, fought back tears, saying, "I'm not crying. Why cry when it's going somewhere good?" and watched Lucky from behind until the very end, leaving a lasting impression.
(SBS Entertainment News | Kang Sun-ae)