Jongno-gu Recruiting 40 Members for "Gardening Crew" to Cultivate Urban Green Spaces Together

Jongno-gu, Seoul (District Mayor: Chung Moonheon), is recruiting members for a "Gardening Crew" until July 29 as part of the "Jongno Gardener Village Project," which aims to cultivate urban green spaces.

This project is a collaborative initiative by Jongno-gu, Kakao Makers, and the Forest for Life Association to create and manage public gardens within the city. The official launch took place on June 18 at Cheongjin Park, where the three organizations signed a business agreement.

Scene from the Jongno Gardener Village business agreement ceremony held last month. Provided by Jongno-gu.

The core objective of the project is to spread a sustainable gardening culture based on citizen participation and to contribute to the restoration of the urban ecosystem. The project seeks not only to expand green spaces but also to improve residents' quality of life and restore community bonds simultaneously.

The total number of recruits is 40. Any citizen interested in gardening and able to participate consistently is eligible to apply. Participants will be involved in managing public gardens in four designated areas: Bukchon, Seochon, Cheongjin·Insadong, and Sajik-dong, with Cheongjin Park as the central hub.

Applications can be submitted by downloading the application form from the Forest for Life Association's website or via the QR code on the poster, and sending it by email to the designated contact by July 29. The final results will be individually notified on August 5.

Those selected as Gardening Crew members will undergo training and field practice from August 7 until the first week of November, after which they will directly manage public gardens. Renowned Korean garden designers will participate as lead gardeners to provide practical support for the activities.

Jongno-gu plans to grant the official title of "Jongno Gardener" to citizens who complete the training and practice, entrusting them with the responsibility of maintaining the local green environment. Through this, the district aims to position citizens as key agents in urban ecosystem restoration.

This project is expected to serve as an important milestone in establishing a participatory ecosystem for urban greening led by citizens. It is also anticipated to have a positive impact on participants' emotional well-being and the creation of a healthy community.

Chung Moonheon, Mayor of Jongno-gu, stated, "I hope citizens will find rest and happiness in their busy daily lives by directly caring for and cultivating nature," adding, "This initiative will not only improve the urban environment but also serve as a catalyst for communication and cooperation among local residents."