ALBAWABA - Thousands of well-wishers gathered on Wednesday to say goodbye to Fu Bao, South Korea's first giant panda born in the country. The panda embarked on her journey to China in a special vehicle designed so she'll have a smooth and comfortable trip, similar to those used for transporting sensitive electronic components.
Fu Bao's parents, Ai Bao and Le Bao, were gifted to South Korea by Chinese President Xi Jinping back in 2016, as part of China's longstanding tradition of "panda diplomacy." Born in 2020, Fu Bao quickly became a celebrity in South Korea, with her adorable antics capturing the hearts of millions. Her videos on the zoo's YouTube channel amassed an impressive 500 million views, drawing crowds of admirers to the Everland amusement park, her home.
Around 5.5 million people, roughly one-tenth of South Korea's population, visited the park to catch a glimpse of Fu Bao. Her popularity also boosted attendance at Everland's Panda World, doubling the number of visitors compared to before her arrival.
Fu Bao's departure is a bittersweet moment for her fans in South Korea. While her parents can remain in the country until 2031 under the agreement between Seoul and Beijing, Fu Bao and her twin sisters, Rui Bao, and Hui Bao, must return to China before they turn four.
(Photo by Jung Yeon-je / AFP)
Before her departure, Fu Bao bid farewell to her South Korean fans in a touching ceremony, where zookeeper Kang Cheol-won, affectionately known as her "grandpa," expressed his love for the beloved panda. Kang will accompany Fu Bao on her journey to China, ensuring her safe arrival at the Shenshuping Panda Base in Sichuan Province.
As Fu Bao starts this new chapter of her life, her legacy in South Korea will live on in the hearts of her fans, who will surely remember her as a symbol of joy and happiness.
