Preserving and Managing 'Namsan Sonamu' as a Masterpiece... Cultivating Successor Trees

Seoul City Finds Historical Significance of Namsan Pine Trees... Establishes Plan for Preservation and Management

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] Seoul City recently established a plan for the creation and conservation management of the Namsan pine forest, systematically organizing existing policies and projects related to Namsan pines, and announced on the 19th that it will preserve and manage Namsan pines as premium trees.

Namsan pines have reddish bark, slightly curved and elegant shapes, possessing unique characteristics exclusive to Namsan pines. Even within the same species, their appearance varies depending on the growing environment.

In the 1990s, Seoul City planted about 18,000 pine trees as part of the 'Restoring Namsan's Original Appearance Project.' In 1995, to commemorate the 50th anniversary of liberation, pines brought from across the country were planted to create the Paldo Pine Grove. In 2009, the ‘eldest’ pine tree from Songnisan Jeongipumsong was also planted.

In 2004, a preservation plan for the native Namsan pine forest was established, selecting superior-shaped pine trees among Namsan pines and collecting seeds to produce successor trees. This fall, seeds will be collected and sown to nurture successor Namsan pines.

Additionally, starting in the second half of this year, the ‘Namsan Pine School’ will be operated, where experts will explain the origin and management of Namsan pines and the importance of ecological conservation.

Kim In-sook, head of the Central Park and Greenery Project Office of Seoul City, said, “We will reflect on the symbolism of Namsan pines and make this an opportunity to cherish and love Namsan even more,” adding, “We will continue to take pride in Namsan pines and strive for their continuous preservation and management.”