A 600-year-old pine tree known as the “King Pine” (Image courtesy of Yonhap)
ULJIN, Aug. 1 (Korea Bizwire) – In the heart of South Korea’s Uljin County, a 600-year-old pine tree known as the “King Pine” is showing signs of distress, prompting forest authorities to launch urgent conservation measures.
The majestic tree, standing 14 meters tall atop a mountain peak, is a symbol of the Korean red pine forest in Sogwang-ri, Geumgangsong-myeon. Its imposing stature earned it the regal moniker that sets it apart from its smaller counterparts.
According to the Uljin National Forest Management Office, the King Pine suffered damage earlier this year when heavy snowfall snapped some of its branches, leading to a decline in the tree’s overall health.
The tree’s plight is not isolated. Since June, amid an intense heatwave, numerous pine trees in the vicinity have shown signs of what experts believe to be water stress.
Three smaller pines beneath the King Pine have already succumbed, now standing as stark reminders of the environmental challenges facing the forest.
In response to these alarming developments, forest officials have implemented a comprehensive protection plan. (Image courtesy of the Uljin National Forest Management Office)
In response to these alarming developments, forest officials have implemented a comprehensive protection plan. Following consultations with experts and local community meetings, damaged branches have been carefully removed.
Metal supports are being installed to reinforce cracked upper branches, while lower limbs vulnerable to snow and typhoons will be secured with cables.
The tree’s trunk, under attack from longhorn beetles and other pests, received insecticide treatments on July 27 and 29. Officials plan three more applications and will extend protective measures to other affected trees in the area.
As a precaution, the hiking trail passing the King Pine has been temporarily closed to visitors.
The Korean red pine, prized for its height, straight trunk, and durability, has historically been used in the construction of palaces and temples.
It grows naturally along the Baekdudaegan mountain range, from Mount Geumgang to areas including Gangneung, Samcheok, Bonghwa, and Uljin.
The Sogwang-ri Korean red pine forest in Uljin is the country’s only designated breeding and protection forest for this species. It spans 1,600 hectares and is home to about 85,000 Korean red pines over 200 years old.
“While we’ve taken immediate action, addressing the root cause of the water stress remains challenging, and we’ll need to monitor the situation closely,” said an official from the Uljin National Forest Management Office.
“Given the King Pine’s symbolic importance to the region, we’re planning to cultivate successor trees, similar to the approach taken with the Jeongipum Pine. We’ll also document the entire conservation process through video and photographs.”
Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)
