The official announcement of when Fu Bao will be returned to China will be revealed this month.
According to Chinese diplomatic sources on January 15, ongoing negotiations between Everland and the China Wildlife Conservation Association focus on the timing and procedures for Fu Bao's return. It has been disclosed that Fu Bao is set to be returned before reaching the age of 4 on July 20 of this year, and the formal announcement is anticipated later this month.
Fu Bao was born on July 20, 2020, to pandas Le Bao and Ai Bao, who Chinese President Xi Jinping sent in March 2016 as a symbol of Korea-China friendship. Affectionately known by nicknames such as "Yongin Fussi," "Fu Princess," and 'Futungtung," Fu Bao has garnered love from audiences in both South Korea and China.
Under the conservation agreement for endangered species sent by China to various countries, pandas sent abroad are repatriated to China before reaching the age of 4. Everland has been engaged in discussions with the Chinese side regarding Fu Bao's return since July last year, coinciding with Fu Bao's third birthday celebration.
Many Korean fans of Fu Bao are sad to see the beloved Panda return to China and have gathered in a popular online community to share their sentiments. They commented, "I can't believe Fu Bao is leaving this year," "Our Fu Princess... I wish she doesn't go back," "I hope she is happy when she returns," "I'm so sad but the photos are so adorable," "Our Panda baby," "No, don't go," "I'm going to cry so much," "I wish Fu Bao gets to see the beautiful spring flowers in Korea before leaving," "I don't want Fu Bao to leave," "It's already time for Fu Bao to leave? I wish Fu Bao can stay," and "Noooo. Don't go!"