KOREA FOUNDATION

Merlion Park is a must-see for tourists visiting Singapore. Since Marina Bay Sands, another famous landmark, is situated opposite the park, many visitors go there to take pictures of its grandiose appearance. But the real hero of the park is a statue representing a mythical creature called the Merlion.

The creature’s name is a combination of the words “mermaid” and “lion”, as it has the tail of a fish and the head of a lion. Its unique appearance and name are derived from the origins of Singapore’s name, from the Sanskrit for “lion city” and the Javanese name “Sea Town.” It’s easy to spot this symbol of Singapore throughout the country, but currently only five Merlion statues are accredited by the tourism board. Two of them are located in Merlion Park, and the first image that comes to people’s minds when they hear the name “Merlion” is the statue that spits water from its mouth in the direction of Marina Bay Sands. If you’re in Singapore, make sure to take a commemorative photo with this statue.