On social media, many viewers were stunned after a man shared the story of Maru, an ‘unofficial guide dog,’ who became a Google Maps star.
On Reddit, the incredible story of the cute golden retriever gained attention as he was seen following a Google Maps snapper and appearing in more than 1,000 locations.
Maru – a boloved island guide
Maru, a golden retriever, captured hearts as the “unofficial guide dog” of Jukdo, a small island in South Korea.
He was known for his friendly nature and became famous after being seen in over 1,000 Google Street View images.
Maru would follow a Google Maps photographer around the island, appearing in picture after picture, guiding visitors with his gentle, sociable presence.
The journey of a friendly Golden Retriever
Jukdo, located near Ulleungdo in the Sea of Japan, is a tiny island that attracts tourists seeking sea views, fields, and cliffs. It covers only 0.456 miles in length and 0.3 miles in width. Despite its small size, it was once home to three members of the same family. Visitors can reach Jukdo by taking a 20-minute ferry from Ulleungdo.
Maru’s story began when a Google Maps photographer captured him while mapping the island.
A social media user, browsing through Google Maps, noticed Maru’s recurring presence.
They shared the adorable discovery on Reddit, writing, ‘This dog followed the Google Earth guy’.
The post quickly gained attention, and people were delighted to learn more about the lovable island guide.
Maru’s fame wasn’t just limited to Google Maps
In the comment selection, one user revealed that they were familiar with the legend of the golden pup named Maru.
He was known as the island’s ‘unofficial guide dog,’ who had been living there for seven years.
Additionally, they added, ‘Maru is known to be super friendly to tourists and locals. There is another doggo named Mingki in another island where she guides tourist too.”
Maru’s story quickly went viral
In the comments section, Maru’s story captured the hearts of viewers, who also admired his warm personality.
One person said: Where on Google Earth? I’m not ashamed to admit I’ll pretend I’m walking in the woods with that dog.
A second wrote: Play with meeeee!
While a third commented: It’s a Googlin Retriever
Someone else said: Street view would be way cooler if this good boy was in every shot.
Maru passed away in 2021
Maru’s story quickly gained viral fame; however, it is a heartwarming tale with a sad ending.
Seven years after the viral images were captured, a Reddit user asked if Maru had passed away. Someone confirmed the sad news, saying, “Sadly, Maru passed away in 2021.”
Another user mentioned, “I read it from Korean news/media. He lived in Jukdo, one of the family islands—Dokdo, Ulleungdo, and Jukdo—in the East Sea.”
Maru’s death was felt deeply by the community. Green Me Magazine wrote a tribute, stating, “The dog arrived on the island at the age of 2 and lived there until a few years ago when he passed away. Korean newspapers paid tribute to Maru, describing him as an extremely sociable and affectionate dog.”
On social media, Maru has become a cherished memory for animal lovers. For them, Maru was not just a dog; he was a symbol of the island’s warmth and hospitality.
Maru’s story is a reminder of the joy that animals bring into our lives.
Although Maru is no longer with us, his legacy lives on. He wasn’t just a pet; he was a beloved guide who welcomed strangers with a wagging tail.
