Gangwon Province Selects "Seonghwang Forest and Seonghwang Forest Village" in Wonju as October Geological and Ecological Landmark

Natural Monument No. 93, "Forest of the Gods": A Treasure Trove of Temperate Deciduous Forests
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Gangwon Province Special Self-Governing Province (Governor Kim Jin-tae) announced on September 29 that it has selected "Seonghwang Forest and Seonghwang Forest Village" in Wonju City as the "Geological and Ecological Landmark" for October 2025.

Seonghwang Forest in Wonju City. Provided by Gangwon Province Special Self-Governing Province

Located in Sinlim-myeon, Wonju City, Seonghwang Forest is home to a diverse range of tree species, including Mongolian oak, pagoda dogwood, linden, and Japanese snowbell, forming an ecosystem representative of the central temperate region. The area is a space where nature and tradition are preserved together, as local residents hold the Seonghwangje ritual twice a year.

In recognition of its ecological and cultural significance, Seonghwang Forest was designated as Natural Monument No. 93 in 1962 and as a special protection zone of Chiaksan National Park in 2007. In 2024, together with Seonghwang Forest Village, it was designated as an ecotourism area, establishing itself as a hub for ecological and cultural tourism.

Notably, the forest is open to the public only twice a year during the Seonghwangje ritual, allowing visitors to enjoy a unique forest experience without prior registration.

In October, a variety of autumn programs will be held around Seonghwang Forest and Seonghwang Forest Village. The village's annual event, the "Seonghwangje" (October 29), organized by the Seonghwangje Preservation Society, will feature a traditional ritual along with related events such as a small concert in the forest and a plant exhibition, allowing participants to experience both tradition and nature.

In addition, the "1st Pheasant Legend Festival" (November 2) will take place in Seonghwang Forest Village, offering a slow running competition and trekking programs along the backdrop of the Chiaksan pheasant legend. The "Seonghwang Forest Experience" program (through November) will also allow visitors to explore the natural monument forest with a professional guide and experience its ecological value firsthand.

A Gangwon Province Special Self-Governing Province official stated, "Seonghwang Forest is a treasure trove of nature and a living space of traditional culture. With autumn approaching, it will offer visitors a unique experience. Since the forest is only open to the public twice a year, we hope you will visit during the Seonghwangje period this October to experience the special charm of Seonghwang Forest."

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