Lotte World Aquarium opened a new capybara exhibit on the B1 level on the 29th, bringing the large, gentle South American rodents—nicknamed ‘Man-sa-taepyeong-bara’ and ‘Mul-meong-jang-in’ (Korean playful nicknames meaning roughly “laid-back capybara” and “water-gazing master”)—to central Seoul. The exhibit recreates the capybara’s aquatic-friendly habitat, including a swim-and-dive tank and resting areas, and staff will provide regular health and nutrition care. The aquarium will run an ecology briefing focusing on observation and feeding (minimizing physical contact), and plans photo zones, themed food and drinks, and merchandise. Organizers say the calm, healing image of capybaras fits current “harmless content” trends and hope the display gives visitors a soothing holiday experience while promoting interest in ecosystem conservation.
