Haetae

chimera · North Korea · East Asia and Pacific

Haetae (also known as Haechi) is a mythical guardian beast from Korean mythology, depicted as a chimeric lion-like creature covered in scales with a single horn on its forehead. It is one of the most important and beloved mythical creatures in Korean culture, serving as the official symbol of Seoul. Haetae are believed to possess the ability to distinguish good from evil, making them symbols of justice and law. They are also fire-eating guardians, capable of neutralizing destructive fire energy (hwa-gi) and preventing fires. During the Joseon Dynasty, haetae statues were placed in front of Gye

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