Whanki Museum urged to restore ancient ginkgo tree damaged by herbicide

A 200-year-old ginkgo tree in Buam-dong, Seoul, is facing a critical situation after herbicide was allegedly injected into its trunk by staff associated with the Whanki Museum. Seoul Environmental Movement Federation and local residents are demanding that the museum take responsibility for the act, apologize to the community, and fund the tree's restoration.

The incident came to light when residents noticed a rapid loss of leaves and yellowing on the historically significant tree, which had been healthy until recently. Upon investigation, they discovered holes drilled into the tree's base and evidence of injected substances. CCTV footage reportedly captured individuals, identified as landscaping employees hired by the museum, drilling into the tree and administering the herbicide.

The Whanki Museum has reportedly admitted to injecting herbicide into the tree. Their stated reason was concern over the tree's roots damaging the museum's outer wall, causing cracks. However, residents and the environmental group point out that Jongno District Office had previously conducted a safety assessment and found no immediate risk, thus denying a request to remove the tree. They argue that the museum's actions were unnecessary and malicious, especially given the tree's age and cultural significance to the neighborhood.

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The Whanki Museum should admit its wrongdoing in bringing the ginkgo tree to the brink of death, apologize to the deeply wounded village residents, and do its best to restore and care for it.

This incident also highlights systemic issues regarding the protection of trees on shared or unclear private property. The ginkgo tree is located on a path between the museum and residences, with over 40 co-owners. When residents inquired with the district office about intervening, they were told it was difficult to get involved as it was on private land. The environmental group argues that current laws treat urban trees as property rather than living entities, leaving them vulnerable when ownership is unclear.

Residents are demanding that the tree be saved, the Whanki Museum issue a formal apology and bear the costs of recovery, and that the tree be designated a protected species by the Jongno District. The situation is particularly poignant as the Whanki Museum is dedicated to the artist Kim Whanki, whose work often celebrated nature and Korean landscapes, creating a stark contrast between the artist's reverence for nature and the alleged actions of the institution bearing his name.

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The ginkgo tree is a species most vulnerable to herbicides, so it dries out at a rapid pace. Immediate removal of the asphalt around the tree to allow its roots to breathe, while supplying sufficient moisture and minimizing evaporation, is necessary.