Suseongsong Pine Tree in Seongnae-ri, Haenam

Basic information

Designation

Natural Monument No.430

Category

동식물

Designated year

2001

Location

해남군, 전라남도— 전남 해남군 해남읍 군청길 4 (성내리)

Coordinates

34.573235, 126.599193

Suseongsong is the name of an old black pine tree that stands in the front yard of the Haenam-gun office. It is about 400 years old, with height of 17m and girth of 3.38m. The black pine has needles that are slightly thicker than those of other kind of pine trees. Since it grows along the coast, it is also known in Korea as sea pine. The name black pine comes from the color of the bark, which is darker than that of regular pines. While most pines have reddish winter buds, those of the black pine are ash-colored. This black pine is beautiful, with a stout trunk and many branches. The name Suseongsong means fortress-protecting pine and refers to the time 60 Japanese ships invaded Wando Island in 1555 (10th year of the reign of King Myeongjong). The enemy was finally defeated by the local soldiers, led by Byeon Hyeop, who was the governor at that time. As a result, Byeon was promoted to the position of provincial governor, and, to mark the occasion, the tree was planted in the front yard of the then local government office and named Suseongsong. Suseongsong inspires people to reflect on the significance of repelling foreign invaders and overcoming times of national crisis; for local residents, it is a beloved symbol of how their home was safeguarded in the past. In good condition, the tree has been designated as a Natural Monument and preserved for its cultural and academic significance.

Location