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Seoul Ginkgo Mystery: Community Battles Museum
18 Sep
Summary
- Locals noticed a beloved 100-year-old ginkgo tree mysteriously dying.
- Suspicion fell on the Whanki Museum, citing root damage concerns.
- Residents launched a campaign, suspecting herbicide poisoning.
In Seoul's Buam-dong, a beloved ginkgo tree, nicknamed 'Grandpa Ginkgo' by locals, has been found to be dying. Residents noticed its leaves falling prematurely, sparking concern. Their investigation, aided by security footage, pointed towards the Whanki Museum, which had previously sought the tree's removal due to alleged root damage to its wall. Residents suspect the museum injected herbicide through funnels installed at the tree's base.
Despite the museum's statement about wall damage and an unsuccessful attempt to resolve the issue, a local council inspection found no connection between the tree and the wall's strain. The Whanki Museum has not confirmed or denied the accusations. Police are currently investigating the residents' report against the museum's director.
The incident has galvanized the Buam-dong community, bringing them closer together. They have organized prayers and rituals for the tree's recovery and are advocating for citizen guardianship of urban trees. The ginkgo, a symbol of longevity and resilience in Korea, is now critically ill, leaving the neighborhood hoping for a miracle as autumn arrives.
