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It’s a bittersweet moment for panda fans in South Korea as the beloved giant panda Fu Bao embarks on her journey back to the Chinese mainland.
Born in the Korean city of Yongin in July 2020, Fu Bao quickly became a superstar, earning the title of a \"top celebrity in South Korea\" with her adorable antics and charming presence.
Fu Bao holds the special distinction of being the first panda cub ever bred in the peninsular country. She was lovingly birthed by panda Le Bao and fathered by Ai Bao, both of whom arrived in South Korea in March 2016 on a 15-year lease.
Fans braved rainy weather on Wednesday, gathering outside Everland, South Korea's largest theme park, to give Fu Bao a heartfelt send-off. Everland’s expansive 3,300-square-meter Panda World was the perfect backdrop for the emotional farewell party.
A specially tuned truck transported Fu Bao to Incheon International Airport, ensuring a smooth journey to Wolong in southwest Sichuan, China — the hometown of giant pandas.
Accompanying Fu Bao on her chartered flight are a South Korean giant panda caretaker and a Chinese veterinarian, ensuring her comfort and safety throughout the trip.
Upon arrival in Wolong, Fu Bao will find a new home at the Shenshuping Base of the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda, where she will join over 30 of her fellow pandas in a sanctuary dedicated to their conservation and well-being.
While fans in South Korea will miss their panda star, they celebrate Fu Bao’s return to her roots, knowing she’s in the best hands possible.
