Li Wanying and her colleague perform in the water at an aquarium in Changchun, Northeast China's Jilin province, March 5, 2016.[Photo/IC]

Li Wanying, 27, worked at television stations and media companies after she graduated with a major in broadcasting and anchoring. In 2014, Li saw recruitment information from an aquarium in Changchun, Northeast China's Jilin province.

"Every girl yearns for the fairy tale world. When I was a kid, I had a great interest in the ocean, especially marine animals. I think an aquarium is an amazing place, so I applied for the job right away," she said.

Li first worked as a guide at the aquarium. Through her tireless efforts, she finally became a "mermaid" in October.

"I really enjoy wearing mermaid costumes in the water. I like the feeling of freedom and weightlessness, which make me feel relaxed," Li said.

"Sometimes, a shark appears when we perform. Then we cannot move too much, as that could result in adverse reactions from the shark, " she added.