The Oldest Alnus Japonica in South Korea Was Toppled by Heavy Rain

A tragic incident occurred where South Korea’s oldest Alnus japonica, designated as a natural monument, was uprooted due to heavy rain. The tree, located in Gwanin-myeon, Pocheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, fell over during strong winds and heavy rain around 1 AM on the July 23rd, 2024. Upon receiving reports, Pocheon City promptly conducted an on-site assessment, finding that the tree‘s base had already snapped. Consequently, Pocheon City and the Cultural Heritage Administration concluded that restoration would be difficult as the roots had been severed, and they are now discussing follow-up measures.

Standing at 21 meters tall with a circumference of 3.4 meters, the Alnus japonica tree had been over 230 years old and was designated as a natural monument in September 2019.

About Alnus Japonica

Alnus japonica, known as the Japanese alder, is a deciduous hardwood tree of the Betulaceae family found in China, Taiwan, Japan, and Russia, and it grows in the central and northern regions of South Korea. It has been reported to grow in areas such as Gwangneung, Myeongseongsan, Suribong, Wangbangsan, Unaksan, Jugumsan, Cheonggyesan, and Huayasan.

Photo from Seoul News

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