Thousands of South Koreans gathered at Everland Resort’s zoo in Yongin City to bid a heartfelt farewell to Fu Bao, the first giant panda born in South Korea. Amid gentle rainfall, families and panda enthusiasts expressed their love and well-wishes, saying “Goodbye Fu Bao” and “We’ll miss you” as the beloved panda prepares to return to China.
Fu Bao is scheduled to leave South Korea on April 3, 2024, heading to Sichuan Province in southwest China. Upon arrival, she will spend a month in quarantine at the Shenshuping Base of the Wolong National Nature Reserve, a renowned conservation facility dedicated to giant panda research and breeding.
Born in July 2020 at the Everland Resort, Fu Bao has captured the hearts of many in South Korea. Her name, meaning “a treasure that brings happiness,” reflects the joy she has brought to visitors and caretakers alike.
Under the terms of international giant panda research cooperation programs, pandas born overseas are to be returned to China before they turn four years old. This practice supports the species’ conservation by allowing pandas to enter breeding programs upon reaching sexual maturity, which typically occurs around four years of age.
Fu Bao’s departure marks a significant moment in the ongoing collaboration between South Korea and China in wildlife conservation efforts. While her absence will be felt deeply by her South Korean admirers, her return contributes to the global endeavor to protect and sustain the giant panda population.
As Fu Bao embarks on her journey home, she leaves behind a legacy of cross-cultural connection and environmental awareness. Her story continues to inspire both countries to strengthen their commitment to wildlife preservation and to foster mutual understanding through such collaborative programs.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
