Despite the rainy weather, thousands of South Korean residents gathered with umbrellas and raincoats to bid farewell to their beloved Fu Bao, the nation’s first giant panda. Born in 2020 at Everland Theme Park near Seoul, Bao is the daughter of Ai Bao and Le Bao, who arrived from China in 2016. As reported by the Korean Herald, Fu Bao was carefully loaded in the specialized, vibration-free truck which roamed around the park for 20 minutes, allowing 6000 fans a final glimpse of the beloved animal. As per the agreement between South Korea and China, Fu Bao will now reside at the Shenshuping Panda Base. Bao’s caregivers, including Song Young-kwan and Kang Cheol-won, known as ‘Fu Bao’s grandpa,’ thanked the public for their love and urged them to always remember Fu Bao.
Despite the recent loss of his mother earlier this week, Kang accompanied Bao on her journey to China and continued to care for her. In an emotional speech, he said, “The day has come, the day you, Fu Bao, who gave hope and happiness to so many people from the day you were born and received so much love and support in return, embark on a long journey. I believe that you can do well wherever you are. Whether 10 years or a hundred years go by, you will always be our baby panda. I love you, Fu Bao. Ladies and gentlemen, Fu Bao is leaving soon. Please remember her, for a long time. Neither Fu Bao nor grandpa will forget you all and everyone please don’t cry too much. I will be back after seeing her off well. Thank you all.”
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Reacting to the video, a user wondered, “This is so sad, why can’t she stay with the zookeepers, like her family.” Another wrote, “I don’t know why but I had tears in my eyes.” “OMG his phone case is him and Bu Bao,” a comment read.
An individual shared, “I still remember when Fu Bao was just born and how little she was back then.”
Another added, “I believe Fu Bao will not forget him, the person who loves Fu Bao. Thank you for taking good care of Fu Bao.”
One more wrote, “I am so lucky to have seen her several months ago. She has such a sweet disposition and her family in Korea has been so good to her. I think the sadness is knowing how much they will miss her.”
Amidst the emotional atmosphere, social media users raised concerns regarding Fu Bao’s treatment at the airport. According to the South China Morning Post, a staff member from the Chinese zoo was spotted inserting his finger through the container’s breathing holes and touching the panda without wearing gloves. Additionally, Fu Bao was exposed to camera flashes from the media, which raised further questions about her health and safety. Meanwhile, as per protocol, before being transferred to the Shenshuping Giant Panda Base at the Wolong National Nature Reserve in Sichuan, Fu Bao will spend a month in quarantine to ensure her well-being.
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