Blooming of One of Korea's Four Great Plum Blossoms, 'Baekyangsa Gobulmae,' Natural Monument No. 486

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Kim Chunsu] The Baegyangsa Office of Naejangsan National Park under the Korea National Park Service announced on the 19th that the Gobulmae (Ancient Buddha Plum) at Baegyangsa Temple in Jangseong, Jeollanam-do, known as one of Korea's four great plum trees and one of the Honam 5 Maes (梅), has bloomed.

The Baegyangsa Gobulmae (Natural Monument No. 486), which first budded on the 12th, is about 350 years old and, along with the Yulgokmae (No. 484) at Ojukheon in Gangneung, the Hwaeommae (No. 485) at Hwaeomsa Temple in Gurye, and the Seonammae (No. 488) at Seonamsa Temple in Suncheon, is one of only four natural monument plum trees in Korea. It is the only red plum blossom among them.

It is also known as one of the Honam 5 Maes, along with the Daemyeongmae at Chonnam National University and the Gyedangmae in Jisil Village, Damyang. Although there is only one tree, its scent is subtle and enchanting, filling the entire Baegyangsa temple grounds.

Han Sang-sik, the head of the administrative department, stated, "The Baegyangsa Gobulmae is expected to be in full bloom next week, but due to cold damage caused by the low temperatures this winter, its splendor is expected to be somewhat less than usual." He added, "To prevent COVID-19 infection, visitors must wear masks and follow social distancing guidelines during their visit."