Seoul Residents Rally to Save Beloved Ginkgo Tree Amid Museum Dispute

In the Buam-dong neighborhood of Seoul, a beloved ginkgo tree, affectionately known as 'Grandpa Ginkgo' by locals, has become the center of a community-wide effort to uncover what is causing its alarming decline. Leaves that should be vibrant in summer have been falling prematurely, leading residents to suspect foul play.

The ginkgo, estimated to be over a century old, stands on a street in Buam-dong, a picturesque area known for its art galleries and cafes, and its restricted development due to proximity to the presidential residence. For many residents, the tree is a communal symbol, a constant presence they greet daily.

"It was the only tree in the neighbourhood that belongs to everyone," said Jung, a resident who spearheaded the investigation into the tree's ailing condition. "Imagine a grandfather who silently embraces you every day... Suddenly, he begins to die. How heartbreaking would that be?"

Suspicion fell upon the nearby Whanki Museum, which is dedicated to the pioneering Korean artist Kim Whanki, known for his nature-inspired art. The museum had previously approached landowners about removing the tree, claiming its roots were damaging the museum's outer wall. Residents found white plastic funnels at the base of the tree and, after reviewing security footage, observed individuals appearing to drill at the tree's base.

Arborists who examined the tree noted its poor health, and residents, suspecting herbicide injection, confronted a museum employee who they claim "basically admitted" the museum had interfered with the tree. The museum has not publicly confirmed or denied these allegations, though it released a statement in May citing the tree's roots as the cause of its wall's collapse and stating staff "attempted to resolve the situation" after receiving no response to requests made to over 40 property owners.

However, a local council representative stated that an inspection last year found no significant connection between the ginkgo tree and damage to the museum wall. Residents have filed a police report against the museum's director, and authorities have confirmed an ongoing investigation.

The dispute highlights a broader conversation about urban development and the preservation of natural landmarks. Environmental activists have joined the residents, launching a petition advocating for citizens to be authorized as guardians of urban trees. The incident is particularly poignant given Kim Whanki's known affinity for nature, having written essays under the pen name Su-wha, meaning "conversation with trees."

Despite the grim prognosis for the ginkgo, which an arborist described as "90% of the way toward death," the community's efforts have fostered a strong sense of unity. Residents have gathered for prayer vigils, performed rituals believed to promote healing, and supported one another through the ordeal. For Jung, the fight to save the tree has also been a personal journey, helping her emerge from a period of illness.

As autumn arrives, the ginkgo's leaves have turned a crispy brown, but the neighborhood holds onto hope for a miracle, cherishing the memory of the tree and the community spirit it has fostered.