Documentary “Goodbye, Grandpa” (Image courtesy of Acoms Everland Resort Co.)
SEOUL, Aug. 30 (Korea Bizwire) – “For those who haven’t seen the movie ‘Cast Away,’ Tom Hanks’ tearful reaction to a departing volleyball might seem incomprehensible. It’s the same with Fu Bao.
To some, she’s just a bear, but for those who found healing in watching her grow, parting with Fu Bao is inevitably heartbreaking,” said director Shim Hyung-jun of the documentary “Goodbye, Grandpa” during an interview in Seoul’s Jongno district on August 29.
Fu Bao, a giant panda born in 2020 at Everland in Yongin, South Korea, became a source of comfort for many during the COVID-19 pandemic, amassing a large fandom.
However, under the Giant Panda Conservation Research Agreement, pandas born outside China must return before 48 months of age to find a mate, leading to an emotional farewell for many Korean fans.
The documentary, set to release in theaters on September 4, captures Fu Bao’s last three months in Korea, including her daily life, the process of her return to China, interviews with her caretakers, and her reunion with keeper Kang Cheol-won.
Shim initially hesitated to take on the project, being unfamiliar with Fu Bao and preferring to work on his own screenplay. However, after watching YouTube videos of Fu Bao and her keepers, he became intrigued by the emotional journey of their relationship and separation.
Documentary “Goodbye, Grandpa” (Image courtesy of Acoms Everland Resort Co.)
The filming process was challenging, requiring cooperation from the keepers and a gradual approach to filming Fu Bao’s family. Shim convinced the keepers, Kang Cheol-won and Song Young-gwan, by expressing his desire to tell their story sincerely without seeking personal glory.
The documentary captures candid moments of Fu Bao playing, rolling around, and munching on bamboo and carrots. Shim recounted the emotional complexity of the filming process, particularly when news of Kang’s mother’s passing coincided with Fu Bao’s departure preparations.
A poignant highlight of the film is Fu Bao’s reunion with Kang in China this July. Shim described the moment as unforgettable, with his heart racing and hands shaking as he filmed. The documentary will be the first to show Fu Bao recognizing Kang and making eye contact with him through the enclosure fence.
Shim reflected on the intense emotional journey of making the film: “In this short time, I experienced so many dramatic moments – joy, sadness, farewell, and death. The emotions were almost overwhelming.
But seeing Fu Bao again resolved everything and brought hope. This film has no hatred, only warmth. I hope that even those unfamiliar with Fu Bao can empathize with her fans through ‘Goodbye, Grandpa.’”
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
