The third annual Taiwan Mermaid Competition concluded on Sunday at Hualien’s Farglory Ocean Park. This event, known for showcasing underwater performance skills, attracted 83 contestants from across Asia. Competitors hailed from Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, Singapore, and the Philippines. Over two days, participants impressed audiences with choreographed routines performed entirely without oxygen tanks. Instead, they relied on freediving techniques to stay underwater.
Moreover, this year’s event introduced an underwater dance category, expanding the competition’s scope. Contestants performed in several divisions, including women’s, men’s, teens, children’s solo events, and team routines. The organizers believe these additions highlight the event’s growth and professionalism.
Among the youngest competitors, 11-year-old Chu You-ning from Taiwan stood out by winning the children’s division. Her performance drew inspiration from Chihiro Ogino, the main character from the animated film Spirited Away. Her routine combined skill and storytelling, earning praise from both judges and spectators.
Furthermore, the open women’s division saw South Korea’s Yurim Seo claim first place. Meanwhile, Gian Jurado from the Philippines won the men’s category. In the group event, six teams competed, but South Korea’s “Love the Memory” took the top spot. Judges admired their technical execution, coordinated formations, and visual artistry.
Farglory Ocean Park provided a unique venue called the “Mermaid Theater” for the event. The theater offers professional underwater staging, complete with lighting and 12-meter-wide viewing windows. These features allow audiences to observe the underwater performances clearly. Nelson Shen, the park’s General Manager, explained that this venue creates an immersive experience for fans and competitors alike.
Additionally, Leo Deng, Director of Sales and Marketing at the park, emphasized their goal to make Farglory Ocean Park a global hub for mermaid athletes. Over the past two years, the event has become more professional. Organizers use the competition to promote ocean conservation by combining sport and artistic expression.
The Taiwan Mermaid Competition shows how mermaiding is evolving into a serious sport. The event blends physical skill, cultural elements, and performance art. With increasing visibility, Taiwan is emerging as a regional center for this unique sport. As a result, more fans and competitors are drawn to the dreamlike spectacle of underwater performance skills.
Clearly, the Taiwan Mermaid Competition highlights the beauty and athleticism of underwater performance skills, inspiring a new generation of mermaid athletes.
