Yuan Xin (园欣/Yuanxin/Lebao), affectionately known as Le Bao in South Korea, is a panda with both a distinctive appearance and a personality that stands out. Born on July 28, 2012, at the Bifengxia Base in China, Yuan Xin’s journey to international fame began when he moved to Samsung Everland in 2016, where he was paired with Hua Ni (Ai Bao). Despite a rocky start to their relationship, Yuan Xin’s playful antics and charm soon won over the hearts of his caretakers and the public. Known for his mischievous behavior – like climbing trees and performing handstands – he became a star not only through his delightful character but also through his groundbreaking role in panda conservation.
Basic Information
- Chinese Name: Yuan Xin (园欣)
- Korean Name: Le Bao
- Studbook Number: 841
- Gender: Male
- Date of Birth: July 28, 2012
- Place of Birth: Ya’an Bifengxia Base, China Giant Panda Conservation and Research Center
- Mother: Long Xin (龙欣)
- Father: Yuan Yuan (园园)
- Wife: Hua Ni (华妮)
- Offspring: Fu Bao (福宝), twin sisters Rui Bao (睿宝) and Hui Bao (辉宝)
- Siblings: Xi Wang (希望), Fu Ni (福妮), Fu Wa (福娃), Shui Ling (水灵), Qing Feng (清风), You You (佑佑), Han Yuan (汉媛), Hu Xiao (虎啸), Xin Yuan (新媛), Xing Lu (兴路), Mai Mai (迈迈)
Intriguing Details of Panda Yuan Xin (Le Bao)
Appearnce: Yuan Xin is easily recognizable by his large, round head, which looks even more prominent due to his slightly recessed ears – giving him an almost “bald” appearance. His eye patches, shaped like tiny birds, add a unique charm to his face, though their appearance sometimes changes slightly due to mild mite infections, which are carefully managed by his caretakers. Adding to his distinctive look, Yuan Xin has a relatively long muzzle, creating an angular facial structure that gives him a sharp, expressive appearance from certain angles.
Not Fond of Love: Facilitating romance in the panda world is no easy feat, and for Le Bao and Ai Bao, the zookeepers pulled out all the stops. They crafted cardboard panda models to pique the pair’s curiosity and even orchestrated private meetings to foster a connection. At first, their encounters were anything but romantic – filled with playful scuffles and hesitant interactions. However, persistence paid off. After multiple introductions and much trial and error, Le Bao and Ai Bao finally formed a successful bond, proving that even in the panda kingdom, love sometimes takes a little encouragement.
Film Star: Le Bao isn’t just a regular panda – he’s a celebrity! With his charming looks and playful demeanor, he made an appearance in a Korean drama, instantly winning over audiences and gaining a loyal fan following.
Mischievous Behavior:Le Bao is a true troublemaker at heart. Whether he’s climbing trees, showing off his impressive handstands, or rolling gleefully in the snow, he always finds ways to entertain himself – and his fans. He has a knack for turning even the simplest moments into mischief, such as taking naps high up in the trees or pulling off a perfectly executed splits-style handstand while urinating.
Picky Eating Habits: Le Bao has a refined palate – or, in other words, he’s quite the picky eater. If the bamboo doesn’t meet his standards, he doesn’t hesitate to show his displeasure, sometimes even baring his teeth in protest. If his caretakers persist in offering him food he dislikes, he might throw a mini tantrum. Interestingly, this fussy eating habit seems to run in the family, as Ai Bao and their daughter, Fu Bao, share the same selective taste in bamboo.
Life Experience of Yuan Xin (Le Bao)
Early Life and Growth: Raised by his nanny, Yu, starting in May 2013, Yuan Xin’s vibrant character blossomed. Around 2014, he was transferred to Dujiangyan. On May 28, 2015, Yuan Xin, accompanied by Han Han (憨憨), was sent to the Linyi Zoo in Shandong Province to participate in visitor interaction activities, an experience playfully dubbed as “working under the table.” Yuan Xin’s journey continued on November 26, 2015, when he was chosen for international cooperation, paving the way for his eventual relocation to South Korea.
Journey to South Korea: On March 3, 2016, Yuan Xin, alongside Hua Ni (Korean name: Ai Bao), embarked on a significant journey to Samsung Everland in South Korea. This move marked the beginning of a 15-year international research collaboration between China and South Korea. The pandas’ new habitat, Panda World, opened to the public on April 21, 2016, with Yuan Xin and Hua Ni being introduced under their new Korean names, Le Bao and Ai Bao. These names, meaning “happiness” and “treasure,” symbolize the pandas’ role in fostering joy and friendship between the two nations.
Adaptation and Life in South Korea: Initially, Yuan Xin was a bit reserved upon his arrival in South Korea but quickly adapted to his new environment. He became outgoing and cheerful, engaging with visitors and performing various adorable actions. Despite the occasional noise disturbances, Yuan Xin maintained a positive and spirited demeanor.
Contributions to the Panda Population: Yuan Xin’s contributions to the giant panda population in South Korea are significant. In March 2020, he successfully mated with Hua Ni, and on July 20, 2020, their daughter, Fu Bao, was born. This event was a milestone as Fu Bao became the first panda born in South Korea. The joyous occasion was followed by another remarkable event on July 7, 2023, when Hua Ni and Yuan Xin welcomed twin female cubs, Rui Bao and Hui Bao.
Current Life and Public Engagement: Yuan Xin enjoys a fulfilling and happy life in South Korea. His deep bond with Hua Ni is often displayed in front of visitors, showcasing their affectionate relationship. Yuan Xin’s love for his “work” is evident, as he consistently participates in public activities, never missing a day.
