LAN colleagues participate in tree-planting event on the occasion of Korean Arbor Day
From 3-5 April the LAN network conducted a Regional meeting for Agricultural Officers(AO) from different Dutch embassies of Asia, in Seoul, Korea. On Arbor Day, April 5, the group visited the private forest of Samsung Everland, the largest amusement park in Korea, and participated in a tree-planting event of the Dutch Ambassador and CEO of Everland. Through a discussion, the group learned about Korean Arbor Day and Korean efforts for reforestation.
Korean Arbor Day
Korean Arbor Day, known as Sikmogil, began on April 5, 1949, and has played a crucial role in promoting environmental stewardship and forest conservation in South Korea. Initially dedicated to encouraging citizens to plant trees and raise awareness about the benefits of reforestation, the day marks the start of an annual, week-long celebration called "Forest Week." The initiative reflects South Korea's commitment to environmental restoration, a response not only to the deforestation caused by historical logging but also to the extensive damage from the Korean War. Over the years, Arbor Day has evolved into a symbol of national recovery and ecological resilience, fostering a culture where community participation in forest restoration is both a duty and a celebration.
South Korea's reforestation efforts
The reforestation efforts in South Korea are among the most successful in the world. Starting in the 1960s, the government implemented aggressive reforestation programs that involved planting millions of trees, extensive research on forest management, and strict protection laws for existing forests. These efforts were driven by the urgent need to combat the effects of erosion and deforestation that had left the country's mountains barren. Over the decades, these initiatives have transformed the landscape dramatically. Today, South Korea boasts a forest cover of over 63%, a significant increase from the approximate 35% coverage in the early 1970s. This growth contributes to carbon sequestration and climate control and supports biodiversity and forest industries, enhancing the quality of life for its citizens.
The forest and mountain of Samsung Everland, which the Dutch ambassador and the AO Group visited on Arbor Day to plant a maple tree, is an excellent example of South Korea's reforestation efforts. This story offered valuable insights for the AO group, relevant for their work in the field of sustainable practices and environmental recovery. The transformation witnessed in South Korea is a testament of what persistent, coordinated public and private efforts can achieve in environmental rehabilitation. This example is particularly relevant for the Netherlands, a country facing environmental challenges, while also being known for its innovative approaches to societal and environmental challenges. Collaborative projects and knowledge exchanges between the two nations could foster advancements in sustainable forestry and urban green spaces, enhancing ecological health and resilience in both countries.
Korean Arbor Day at Samsung Everland Forest
