A debate has erupted in Kyrgyzstan over one of the country's main symbols. Social media users have proposed renaming Lake Issyk-Kul, reports infohub.kz.
One of the first to voice the initiative was activist Erzhan Suleiman on his Facebook page. In his opinion, the name "Kyrgyz Sea" would better emphasize the lake's national significance and its special role for the country.
Other users have supported the idea. They argue that it's not so much about an official renaming as about a symbol of national identity. They cite examples like the Caspian, Aral, and Dead Seas, which are also lakes from a geographical standpoint.
However, not everyone is on board. Many users believe that the historical name Issyk-Kul should not be changed. Comments note that renaming would require updating documents, maps, and signs, with no practical benefit.
Some have proposed a compromise: keep the official name Issyk-Kul, but use "Kyrgyz Sea" informally or as a literary image. Others have taken a humorous approach, suggesting the lake be called the Kyrgyz Ocean.
Earlier, Kursiv LifeStyle reported that the resort shore of Issyk-Kul is being prepared for large-scale development.