Yes, South Korea is home to several giant pandas, although these pandas are not native to the country. Instead, they are on loan from China under a program aimed at fostering international cooperation in giant panda conservation. These 4 pandas currently live at the Everland Zoo in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, a popular theme park and animal park complex, where they are carefully exhibited and protected as part of efforts to raise awareness about the species and its conservation.
The Pandas of Everland Zoo
Ai Bao (爱宝): Ai Bao, born on July 13, 2013, at the China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda (located in Sichuan), was one of the first pandas to be sent to South Korea. She was part of the inaugural group of pandas that traveled to Everland Zoo in March 2016. Ai Bao was named after the zoo itself, “Ai Bao” meaning “Everland Treasure.” She quickly became one of the zoo’s most beloved residents.
Le Bao (乐宝): Le Bao was born on July 28, 2012, also at the China Conservation and Research Center in Sichuan, and arrived in South Korea with Ai Bao in March 2016. Le Bao was renamed upon his arrival at Everland. Recently, reports have raised concerns about his health, including skin issues and mites in his eyes. Additionally, there are reports of noise pollution in his environment, which has sparked public concern over the pandas’ well-being. The zoo has been working with Chinese experts to address these issues and ensure the pandas receive the best care possible.
Rui Bao (睿宝): Rui Bao was born on July 7, 2023, at Everland Zoo. Her name, meaning “Wise Treasure,” reflects her playful and intelligent nature. Rui Bao quickly became a fan favorite, known for her energetic antics such as performing solo flips. She captured hearts during her first birthday celebrations, when she successfully grabbed a “barbell” symbolizing health.
Hui Bao (辉宝): Born on the same day as Rui Bao, July 7, 2023, Hui Bao’s name translates to “Shining Treasure.” Like her sibling, she won the affection of many visitors with her cheerful personality and charming behaviors. During her first birthday celebrations, Hui Bao made headlines by grabbing a microphone, symbolizing popularity.
Past Residents: Fu Bao
South Korea was also home to a giant panda named Fu Bao (福宝), who was born at Everland Zoo on July 20, 2020. Fu Bao made history as the first giant panda born in South Korea. However, Fu Bao’s stay in South Korea was relatively short, as she left for China on April 3, 2024, and made her official public debut in China on June 12, 2024.