Kind of like a St. Bernard. But it's actually a guardian lion animal/force with horns that protects against catastrophe; fires, in particular. I've also read that Haetae, as it's usually called when not named by it's chummy diminutive, has the power of determining good from evil. The mythical creature has appeared in Korean texts since the mid-1500s. Seoul has taken up Haechi as their new city symbol because cities of its size, population, and gross regional domestic product (kind of like its "wealth") usually have one. I think it's cute. Here's some more pictures.
Oh, and Seoul's official website has changed from the "Hi Seoul" to a Haechi Seoul web page. And the promotion is huge. The new website features pictures of the statues, Haechi promotion through graphic design--featured below, as well as language summoning the strengths of Haetae to bless and guide the city.
Browsing the new city site is a bit bothersome for you who may be reading my account: it's not yet available in English. But check out yet another side of our beloved Haechi to get the kids on board.
Look at that cutie. You better believe I'm getting a t-shirt with that loveable face on it (please leave me a comment if you'd like some Haechi promo junk too). And now I leave you with a song. Listen and see if you can hear the gurgling water sound (symbolizing ability to keep fire at bay?) The children chanting Haechi! in the background makes me long for my future students.
Peace friends,
Vanessa
