Ginkgo Tree of Munmyo Confucian Shrine, Seoul

Basic information

Designation

Natural Monument No.59

Category

동식물

Designated year

1962

Location

종로구, 서울특별시— 서울특별시 종로구 성균관로 31 (명륜3가, 유림회관)

Coordinates

37.585744, 126.995945

Found in Japan, China and Korea, the gingko tree was introduced to Korea along with Confucianism and Buddhism from China. In fall it produces beautiful leaves that are resistant to insect damage. As ginkgo trees provide broad leafy shade, they are often planted in arbors or by roadsides. This 400-year-old ginkgo tree is located around Myeongnyundang lecture hall of Munmyo Confucian Shrine near Sungkyunkwan University. It is about 26m in height and has a girth of 12.09m. The tree has nicely spread branches, and is notable for its well-developed yuju (a deformed root shaped like knots). It is presumed that the tree was originally planted when the Munmyo Confucian Shrine was rebuilt in 1602, having been burnt down during the Japanese Invasion of Korea in 1592. The ginkgo tree at the Munmyo Confucian Shrine in Seoul has been well preserved for several centuries, making it an important material for biology research. It has been designated as Natural Monument (No. 59).

Location