Yeongdeungpo-gu's Only Protected Tree, Dangsan Ginkgo Tree, Undergoes 'Special Surgical Treatment'

Innovative Surgical Procedures Departing from Traditional Methods Until June
Proactive Eco-Friendly Measures... Customized Tree Management Possible by Removing Protective Tree Filling
Beyond Simple Tree Treatment, Preserving History and Culture and Practicing Coexistence with Nature

Yeongdeungpo-gu (District Mayor Choi Ho-kwon) announced that it is planning a special surgical procedure for the Dangsan Ginkgo Tree, the only protected tree in the district that holds the history and symbolism of the area.

The 18-meter-tall ginkgo tree located in Gangmaeul Children's Park in Dangsan-dong 6-ga is the district's only protected tree. Planted to commemorate the resting place of a king during the early Joseon Dynasty, this old tree has been a spiritual pillar for local residents and is a living history of Yeongdeungpo. In July 1968, recognizing its value, it was designated as a protected tree with an age of 530 years.

This protected tree, which has been with the residents for many years, is set to be reborn with a new appearance through a special surgical procedure taking place until June.

Tree surgery is a treatment aimed at preventing the expansion of wounds caused by pathogens, pests, and decay. The typical surgical method involves removing the decayed parts followed by ▲ sterilization, pest control, preservation, and waterproofing treatment ▲ surface shaping treatment (artificial bark treatment, anti-oxidation treatment), and so on.

The surgery being conducted this time is a proactive and innovative method that differs from the usual approach of filling cavities; it involves removing the internal filler material of the tree and performing sterilization and preservation treatments.

By removing the filler material inside the protected tree, it suppresses moisture and bacterial growth within the cavity, allowing for visual inspection of the interior and enabling customized management of the protected tree.

Also, unlike the conventional method of filling cavities, this surgery is performed without using artificial materials, employing an eco-friendly approach that maintains the natural appearance of the protected tree. This is expected to play an important role not only in preserving the health of the tree and the beauty given by nature but also in conserving the historical value of the protected tree.

This protected tree surgery goes beyond simple tree treatment and is a meaningful project that revitalizes our history and culture, with plans for continuous management after the surgery. With the district’s dedicated efforts and the interest and support of local residents, it is hoped that the only protected tree in the area will regain vitality and remain a beautiful symbol of the community for a long time.

Choi Ho-kwon, Mayor of Yeongdeungpo-gu, stated, “We will continue to provide beautiful natural environments and historical value to local residents through ongoing management of protected trees,” and added, “Based on the experience and know-how gained from this surgery, we will preserve the protected trees in harmony with nature.”

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.