Ginkgo Tree of Ungok-ri, Hamyang

Ginkgo Tree of Ungok-ri, Hamyang, growing at the entrance to the village, is estimated to be about 800 years old. It stands 31.2 m tall with a girth at breast height of 9.0 m; at 1 m above the ground the trunk divides into two, merges again at 3 m, and then splits into five at 5 m. The tree is said to have been planted when Ungok-ri village was first settled, and the village came to be called Eunhaengjeong or Eunhaeng-maeul — 'Ginkgo Village' — because of it. It is said that anyone passing in front of the tree without showing due respect will bring misfortune upon their household and the village; according to feng shui belief, the village is shaped like a boat, and this tree serves as its mast, protecting the village, so it has long been carefully cherished and preserved. Ginkgo Tree of Ungok-ri, Hamyang holds great historical, local and cultural value as a symbol of the village, and, as an old and massive tree, considerable biological value as well; it is accordingly designated and protected as a natural monument.

AI Translation

Where it is

Region

Hamyang, Gyeongnam

Designation

Natural Monument · 천연기념물