30) Korea - 13. Sangsaseoktang

Literally translated as 'lizard in love,' it is also called 'Suili-jeomdae' or 'Suili-chamdae.' It initially appears as a small lizard, but if cut or killed with a sword, it quickly regrows, gradually increasing in size until it becomes a giant snake or dragon. According to some legends, it is said to be a beautiful woman living in a cave who transformed, and some tales mention three sisters or three friends living together. The following is a record from 'Yongjaechonghwa': Before Prime Minister Hong achieved success, he took shelter in a cave to escape the rain and met a beautiful Buddhist nun. Prime Minister Hong, who had a relationship with the nun, promised to live with her in the future but did not keep his promise. The nun waited for him and eventually died of illness. Later, when Prime Minister Hong became an observer, a small lizard appeared in his room. Each time it was killed, a larger snake appeared the next day, eventually becoming a large python. Prime Minister Hong realized this was the vengeful spirit of the nun he had caused to die by breaking his promise. He placed the snake in a box and kept it by his side. However, Prime Minister Hong gradually lost his sanity and eventually fell ill and died.