Gangwon-do Yeongwol 'Solgogae Pine Tree' Selected as 'Tree of the Year' by Korea Forest Service

Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province Yeongwol-gun (Governor Choi Myung-seo) announced on the 14th that the 290-year-old Solgogae Pine Tree, a symbol of Sansol-myeon in Yeongwol-gun (81-1, Nokjeon-ri, Sansol-myeon), has been selected in the protected tree category of the ‘2025 Tree of the Year’ organized by the Korea Forest Service.

The 'Solgogae Pine Tree' located at 81-1 Nokjeon-ri, Sansol-myeon, Yeongwol-gun, Gangwon-do, selected in the protected tree category of the '2025 Tree of the Year' organized by the Korea Forest Service. It is 290 years old. Photo by Yeongwol County Office

The Korea Forest Service selects the 'Tree of the Year' annually to re-evaluate the value of protected and ancient trees that have endured for many years and to raise public interest in beautiful old trees. Among the 10 trees selected this year, three were from Gangwon Province: one Solgogae Pine Tree in Yeongwol in the protected tree category, one Dolbaenamu (wild pear tree) in Inje, and one pine tree in Jeongseon in the ancient tree category.

The Yeongwol Solgogae Pine Tree is a protected tree known for its unique twisted shape that grows as if stretching upward and its beautiful form, which served as the motif for the trademark of Solpyo Pine Trees, symbolizing ‘natural beauty.’

This selection recognizes not only its outstanding aesthetics but also its role as a focal point for community unity, as village events are held at the Solgogae Pine Tree Park, and its value as a tourist attraction frequently visited by outsiders.

Choi Myung-su, Governor of Yeongwol-gun, stated, “The single pine tree we have protected for many years has now become a special tree representing the village and Yeongwol-gun,” adding, “We will continue to nurture it sustainably for future generations.”