Everland's twin pandas to begin quarantine next month ahead of China transfer

Limited public viewings to continue through Dec. 11 before departure

Twins to be housed in separate indoor facility during quarantine period

Transfer follows agreement requiring return to China before age 4

Farewell events including zookeeper talk concert planned

Twin giant pandas Rui Bao (right) and Hui Bao (left) [Everland]

As the quarantine schedule for South Korea's first twin pandas takes shape, Everland is planning a series of farewell events — both online and in person — including a zookeeper talk concert and a photo contest. Alongside the pre-departure health management required for a safe transfer, the park is also beginning the process of wrapping up more than two years of interactions between the twins and their fans.

Everland said Monday that Rui Bao and Hui Bao, currently housed at the panda second house, will undergo a month-long international wildlife pre-quarantine starting Nov. 13 in preparation for their move to China. The twins, born in July 2023, are scheduled to depart in the third week of December.

Under an agreement with China, giant pandas born abroad must be returned to China before the age of 4 to participate in future breeding programs.

Unlike their older sister Fu Bao, whose quarantine was conducted without public access, the twins will be available for limited viewing in the indoor enclosure of the second house, which features an independent release area. "We plan to coordinate the viewing format and schedule based on their health and transfer readiness," an Everland official said. The final public viewing day is Dec. 11, and the specific date and location of the transfer will be determined after reviewing conditions on the ground.

Everland will run a series of farewell programs ahead of the twins' departure, including a zookeeper talk concert. Online events are also planned — a photo contest on Instagram runs through Wednesday, with standout entries submitted with a designated hashtag eligible to win Everland admission tickets and instant cameras.

"We are doing our utmost to ensure Rui Bao and Hui Bao can begin their new journey safely and in good health," said Kang Cheol-won, an Everland zookeeper. "We hope many people will come and share warm memories with the twins during the precious two-plus months that remain before they leave."

terry@heraldcorp.com