Ssangam Park in Gwangsan District, Gwangju Selected as a 'Mugunghwa Landmark'

Mugunghwa Hill in Ssangam Neighborhood Park, located in Gwangsan District, Gwangju, received the Encouragement Award in the 12th National Flower Mugunghwa Landmark Contest organized by the Korea Forest Service.

A flower sculpture in the shape of the Taegeukgi flag, created in Mugunghwa Hill at Ssangam Neighborhood Park in Gwangsan District, Gwangju, is seen from the sky. Provided by Gwangsan District

According to Gwangsan District on August 13, the Korea Forest Service held this contest targeting Mugunghwa hills and roadside trees created by local governments and institutions across the country, ultimately selecting four locations as landmarks. Gwangsan District was recognized for its participatory park management approach, where citizens directly plant and care for trees, as well as its efforts to create a space that promotes the value of the national flower.

Mugunghwa Hill at Ssangam Park was established in 2023 and covers an area of 0.3 hectares. Its distinguishing feature is the Taegeukgi flag shape, created by harmonizing Mugunghwa and other trees. Red Mugunghwa (Jeokdansim-gye) represents the yang (positive) part of the Taegeuk symbol, while blue Mugunghwa (Cheongdansim-gye) represents the eum (negative) part. Other trees are arranged to depict the four trigrams of Geon, Gon, Gam, and Ri.

Since its creation, civic organizations have participated in its management, continuing activities such as installing information boards and planting flowers and trees. Benches and photo zones have also been installed through the resident participatory budget. The site is used as a venue for various community events, including walking events, busking, and tree planting.