South Korea-born giant pandas scheduled to return to China in December
Twin giant pandas Rui Bao and Hui Bao, born in South Korea in July 2023 and currently residing at Everland's Panda Second House, are scheduled to return to China in the third week of December, Everland said Wednesday.
Giant pandas Rui Bao and Hui Bao celebrate their third birthday at Everland, Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, July 7, 2026.（Photos: Xinhua)
According to Everland, the resort and leisure division of Samsung C&T, all giant pandas born outside China should be returned before they reach four years of age, ahead of the onset of their potential breeding years.
Everland said it has been in close consultation with the Chinese side to determine an optimal timeline for the twin sisters' relocation.
Giant pandas Rui Bao and Hui Bao mark their 1,000th day since birth, Everland in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, April 2, 2026.
The exact departure date and destination will be finalized considering various factors such as the twins' health, local weather conditions and logistics.
Rui Bao and Hui Bao will enter a mandatory one-month health management and quarantine period ahead of their departure.
Everland said it will fully prepare for a safe and secure transit while organizing farewell programs for visitors.