Cheong Wa Dae’s Grove of Old Trees consists of four tree species, multi-stem pine, locust tree, tortured willow, and Walter’s dogwood, and a total of six trees: one multi-stem pine, three locust trees, one tortured willow, and one Walter’s dogwood. They were designated as natural monuments in 2022. These trees, grown in a protected forest area for approximately 300 years, have historical significance dating back to the rear garden of Gyeongbokgung Palace to Cheong Wa Dae, and symbolize continuity and historical relevance.

Regarding the value of individual trees, the multi-stem pine stands out due to its large canopy and beautiful shape, representing the Cheong Wa Dae and bearing witness to critical events in early modern and contemporary Korean history. The three locust trees, which are the tallest among the trees near the Nokjiwon, can be used to estimate the original vegetation of the rear garden of Gyeongbokgung Palace.

The tortured willow, which historically symbolized dragons ascending to the heavens and was cherished by the royal family is a rare biological specimen due to its location near the water stream originating from Bukhansan Mountain. Lastly, Walter’s dogwood is a native species associated with Korean daily life that was used as a whip for horses and is now a rare species to encounter in urban areas.

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