CCTV: "Fubao is adapting peacefully... Will meet the public in June"

Update on Pubao Following Abuse Allegations
"Measures Taken for Pubao to Live in a Breeding Center to Adapt"

Amid allegations that Giant Panda 'Fubao,' born in Korea, is being mistreated locally, Chinese state media reported that Fubao is adapting well. This is interpreted as a response to the widespread 'Fubao abuse allegations' circulating recently on Chinese social networking services (SNS).

The appearance of Fubao in the video released by Chinese authorities on the 25th. The fur on the nape appears flattened, and there are indentations in the fur on the back and forehead. Photo by China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda Weibo capture

China Central Television (CCTV) stated on the 27th, "Fubao completed quarantine and inspection on May 4th and was moved to the breeding center (繁育園) at the Wolong Xueshuping Base of the China Giant Panda Protection and Research Center, where it is further adapting to the environment." They added, "Currently, Fubao's adaptation is peaceful and normal, and its condition is good, so it will meet the public in June."

CCTV quoted the head of the Xueshuping Base, explaining that pandas coming from abroad must undergo quarantine, inspection, and an adaptation period after arriving in China. The quarantine and inspection period varies by individual but usually takes about one month. The head said, "To help Fubao better integrate into the panda group at the center, the base has specially arranged for Fubao to spend a certain amount of time living in the breeding center."

Regarding Fubao's living space, it was reported that special enclosures at the breeding center have exchange windows installed, allowing neighboring pandas to interact through sounds and scents to become familiar with each other. It is also convenient for caretakers to observe and record Fubao's adaptation status from a close distance.

Previously, allegations of Fubao being abused locally in China surfaced mainly on online communities. Recently, photos presumed to be of Fubao were posted on Chinese SNS, showing marks such as indentations on the neck and signs of hair loss, raising suspicions that Fubao was used for private receptions. Additionally, controversy continued after photos appeared showing someone reaching into the enclosure to touch the panda and seemingly feed it.

Amid recent allegations of abuse against Fubao, domestic fans of Fubao held a truck protest demanding an explanation from the Chinese side. Photo capture = Fubao Gallery

Although Chinese panda protection authorities issued an official statement denying the rumors surrounding Fubao, fans of Fubao in Korea and China demanded clarification. On the same day, some of Fubao's fans sent a truck with protest slogans demanding an explanation of the 'Fubao abuse allegations' near the Chinese Embassy in Seoul's Myeongdong district, staging a demonstration.