You You

Basic Profile

You You (Chinese: 友友) is a male giant panda born on September 6, 2021, at Zoo Aquarium de Madrid in Spain. He holds the global studbook number 1271. He and his twin brother Jiu Jiu (久久) are the younger siblings of Zhu Li Na (竹莉娜). Their parents are Bing Xing (冰星, studbook 721) and Hua Zui Ba (花嘴巴, studbook 576).

Naming

On December 17, 2021, Madrid Zoo held a 100-day naming ceremony for the twin cubs. They were named “You You” (友友, meaning “Friendship”) and “Jiu Jiu” (久久, meaning “Forever”) — names symbolizing the enduring friendship between China and Spain.

Public Debut

On March 21, 2022, the twins made their first public appearance during Madrid Zoo’s 50th-anniversary celebration. At six months old, each weighed approximately 15 kg.

Return to China

The Journey Home

On February 29, 2024, the entire panda family — Bing Xing, Hua Zui Ba, Zhu Li Na, You You, and Jiu Jiu — departed Madrid aboard flight CA3102 at 18:43 local time. This was part of the Sino-Spanish conservation agreement requiring overseas-born cubs to return to China between 2-4 years of age to prevent inbreeding.

The family arrived at Chengdu on March 1, 2024, at 13:49, and entered quarantine at the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding.

Life at Guangzhou Zoo

New Home

In September 2025, You You and Jiu Jiu were transferred to Guangzhou Zoo for a five-year educational exchange program. On September 16, 2025, the brothers flew from Chengdu to Guangzhou aboard China Southern Airlines flight CZ3414, accompanied by their dedicated keepers and veterinary team.

The new panda exhibit at Guangzhou Zoo covers 3,813.16 square meters with:

• Air-conditioned indoor enclosures with viewing glass
• Outdoor playgrounds with climbing structures, slides, and water features
• Specialized food preparation facilities following Chengdu Base formulas

On October 20, 2025, You You and Jiu Jiu officially debuted to the public, coinciding with the 20-day countdown to the 15th National Games.

Appearance

You You is described as having a broad face, short muzzle, and round cheeks, giving him a gentle and good-natured appearance. His black-and-white fur is distinctly bright and clean. He is active and playful, often chasing and wrestling with his brother Jiu Jiu in their enclosure.