The tree is officially registered in the national land register and possesses its own land title.
It is the first 'tree-landowner' in South Korean history, established by the donation of Lee Soo-mok in 1927.
The name 'Seoksongryeong' literally translates to 'Stone Pine Spirit,' signifying its status as a sacred tree.
Despite its age, the pine tree remains in a managed state through ongoing arboricultural support and monitoring by the Cultural Heritage Administration.
The tree is surrounded by a low protective fence, and visitors are required to walk around the perimeter to view the expansive crown.
Seoksongryeong is a 600-year-old Korean pine tree designated as Natural Monument No. 294, located in the village of Cheonhyang-ri, Yecheon. The tree is legally recognized as a landowner, holding its own property rights and paying taxes to the local government. It stands approximately 10 meters tall with a branch spread reaching 32 meters in diameter. Local villagers organize an annual rite to pray for the village's prosperity and safety under the tree's protection. The tree's unique legal status was established in the 1920s when a local resident donated land to the tree to ensure its preservation. It is considered a guardian spirit of the village, embodying the cultural intersection of folklore and legal history in South Korea.
The wide-angle vantage point from the village road looking up toward the tree to capture its full horizontal spread.
Visit during the spring or autumn months when the surrounding agricultural scenery is most vibrant.
Respect the signage near the root zone as the soil and root system are protected for the tree's health.
Combine this visit with a tour of the nearby traditional village houses to understand the rural landscape of Yecheon.
Avoid walking inside the fenced perimeter or stepping on the exposed root areas which are sensitive to soil compaction.
Maintain silence, do not climb on the protective barriers, and do not touch the tree bark or branches.
