Top 10 international visitors to Singapore in 2012

Some of the world's most sought after artistes, politicians, movers, shakers and a few animals graced our shores for the first time ever.

2012 was a year of firsts for Singapore's bilateral relations with China as giant pandas Jia Jia and Kai Kai arrived as part of an agreement to mark 20 years of diplomatic ties.

US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton's visit signals a continued commitment by the Obama Administration to engage the South-East Asian region.

Singapore proves to be a major player in regional security with Myanmar President Thein Sein's and The Chief of Army of the Australian Defence Force, Lieutenant General (LTGEN) David Morrison making their visits here.

This is also a year of firsts for many K-pop fans in Singapore with Bigbang, 2NE1, and the artistes of SM Entertainment holding major concerts as part of their world tour, and some say, their plan for global domination.

Let's not forget Lady Gaga, Katy Perry, Jason Mraz and Jennifer Lopez's much awaited concert, which drew thousands of loyal fans to Singapore's latest concert venue, Gardens by the Bay.

Click on thumbnail to view. Story continues after photos. (Photos: ST, TNP, myp, Zaobao, Launch Entertainment, YG Entertainment, Golden Village Pictures)