As "Hello, Grandpa," a heartwarming documentary chronicling the journey of beloved Korean-born giant panda Fu Bao, who gracefully returned to China's embrace, prepares for its cinematic debut next week, Kang Cheol-won, the panda's devoted zookeeper, harbors a heartfelt wish: that this film serves as a balm for souls grappling with adversity or feeling a void in their lives.
"Amidst bidding farewell to Fu Bao and now nurturing Rui Bao and Hui Bao, I realize the profound impact the Bao family has etched not merely on our hearts but also on countless others," Kang mused during a Seoul press conference on Tuesday, underscoring the pandas' unparalleled popularity in Korea. Nicknamed 'Kang Bao' by adoring fans, Kang is renowned for the unparalleled care he lavished on Fu Bao, the pioneering Korean-born giant panda, who made her debut in 2020 at Everland Resort, Yongin, Gyeonggi Province. To him, she was more than just a panda; she was a cherished member of his family.
Kang, who has nurtured Fu Bao's parents, Ai Bao and Le Bao, since 2016, has affectionately assumed the role of 'Grandpa' to Fu Bao, a moniker that inspired the documentary's title. "Hello, Grandpa" meticulously captures the poignant three months preceding Fu Bao's emotional departure from Kang's care, immortalizing her daily routines and the indelible bond they shared.
Fu Bao emerged as a beacon of hope amidst the COVID-19 gloom, drawing hordes of Koreans to the amusement park and captivating audiences with her every move on video platforms. Kang voiced his anxiety over the potential void that might engulf people post-Fu Bao's departure. "In trying times, Fu Bao instilled courage, hope, and a renewed zest for life in many. My fear was that with her return to China, a sense of emptiness or sorrow might resurface," he confessed.
"I pray that this film serves as a solace to those in need, illuminating the magic of the Bao family to the uninitiated, and ensuring that their legacy lives on for generations to come," he added, his voice laced with emotion.
Fu Bao's journey back to China in April was overshadowed by a personal tragedy for Kang: the passing of his mother the day before her departure. Amidst his grief, Kang steadfastly fulfilled his duty, accompanying Fu Bao on her momentous journey. The documentary poignantly captures this difficult decision, showcasing Kang's unwavering commitment to ensuring Fu Bao's safe arrival.
"The preparation for Fu Bao's departure had been long and arduous. My mother, just three days prior, had blessed me with her 'safe journey' wishes. But when the day arrived, I was shattered by the news of her passing. It felt as if the world had stopped spinning," Kang reminisced, his voice heavy with emotion. "Yet, my brothers' reassurance that my mother would understand my absence at her funeral, gave me the strength to carry on."
Echoing Kang's sentiments, Song Young-kwan, another zookeeper at the amusement park, fondly known as 'Song Bao,' shared that the film served as a poignant reminder of his cherished moments with Fu Bao. "It rekindled memories with Fu Bao that had been buried beneath the hustle and bustle of daily life. I'm certain the audience will resonate with these same heartfelt emotions," he said.
Set to captivate audiences on September 4, "Hello, Grandpa" promises to be a cinematic ode to the unbreakable bond between man and nature, leaving a lasting impression on every heart it touches.
