Fu Bao, South Korea's cherished giant panda, is embarking on her journey back to China, ending a beloved chapter in Yongin. Born in July 2020, Fu Bao quickly became a household name, earning the title of a \"top celebrity in South Korea.\" She was the first panda cub bred in the peninsula, born to Le Bao and Ai Bao, who arrived in South Korea in March 2016 under a 15-year lease.
Fans rallied in rainy weather outside Everland, the nation's largest theme park and home to the expansive 3,300-square-meter Panda World, to bid farewell to Fu Bao. The dedicated crowd waited for hours, showcasing the deep affection South Koreans have for the gentle giant.
Fu Bao's departure was meticulously planned, with a specially tuned truck ensuring a smooth journey to Incheon International Airport. She will then board a chartered flight to Wolong in Sichuan, China's renowned panda sanctuary. Accompanied by a South Korean caretaker and a Chinese veterinarian, Fu Bao is set to join over 30 of her kind at the Shenshuping Base of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda.
This transition marks the end of an era for Everland's Panda World while reinforcing international cooperation in panda conservation efforts. Fu Bao's journey underscores the global community's commitment to preserving these magnificent creatures for future generations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
