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 has a large, round head, which appears even more prominent due to his ears being set back, giving him a somewhat bald look. His eye patches are uniquely shaped like small birds, sometimes looking a bit different due to mite infections, which are usually well-controlled. Yuan Xin also has a relatively long muzzle, making his face appear angular from certain perspectives.
Not Fond of Love: To help Le Bao and Ai Bao successfully mate, the zookeepers went to great lengths. They first used cardboard to create panda models to attract the attention of the two pandas, then arranged for them to meet privately. Although there was some initial scuffling between the two, after multiple attempts, they finally formed a successful pair.
Film Star: Le Bao has also appeared in a Korean drama, leveraging its charming looks to become a star panda with a significant following.
Mischievous Behavior: Le Bao is known for its playful nature. It enjoys climbing trees, doing handstands, and frequently takes naps in the trees or rolls around in the snow for fun. It also loves playing pranks, such as performing a splits-style handstand while urinating.
Picky Eating Habits: is notably picky about his food. If presented with bamboo he does not favor, he will show his displeasure by baring his teeth and might even get upset if his caretakers insist he finish it. This picky eating habit is shared with Ai Bao and their daughter, Fu Bao.
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.