On March 3, 2024, the giant panda "Fu Bao" in South Korea had its last public display before returning to China at Everland in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea. On this day, thousands of South Koreans came to Everland to say goodbye to "Fu Bao". According to reports, since January 4, 2021, when "Fu Bao" began to meet the public, it has attracted a total of 5.5 million visitors. On social networks, the number of hits about "Fu Bao" has reached 500 million, making it a veritable "superstar" in South Korea.
Due to the popularity of "Fu Bao" in South Korea, in the last few days before his return to China, Everland deliberately extended the appearance time of "Fu Bao" from half a day to a full day. Still, visitors who want to see "Fu Bao" still have to wait in line, sometimes for up to 400 minutes. On the last day of "Fu Bao", some tourists start queuing even from the early hours of the morning.
Born on July 20, 2020, Fu Bao is the first baby of giant pandas "Aibao" and "Lebao" in South Korea, and the first giant panda born in Korea. According to the relevant protection agreement signed between China and South Korea, "Fu Bao" needs to return to China before reaching the age of 4. From March 4, Fu Bao will undergo a one-month health and quarantine management and transfer cage acclimatisation training, and is expected to return to China in April.
The return of "Fu Bao" has triggered the reluctance of the South Korean people. Many fans expressed their love and blessings for "Fu Bao" in various ways. This event not only demonstrates the international popularity of giant pandas, but also reflects the deep friendship between China and South Korea in animal protection and cultural exchanges.