It is the only arboretum in the nation managed and funded by a state-run highway corporation.
The facility serves as a primary gene bank for native Korean trees used in highway greening projects.
The arboretum features a specialized cactus greenhouse that houses rare desert flora not typically found in the region.
It was established originally as a nursery in the 1970s to provide trees for the construction of the Gyeongbu Expressway.
The grounds include a dedicated area for the preservation of endangered native plant species native to the Jeonbuk region.
The Korea Expressway Corporation Arboretum, also known as the Jeonju Arboretum, is the only botanical garden in South Korea operated by a public highway agency. Spanning approximately 290,000 square meters, the site serves as a research facility for indigenous plant species and a nursery for landscaping plants used along national highways. The grounds are divided into multiple specialized zones including a rose garden, a wild flower garden, and an aquatic plant garden. It features a dedicated Greenhouse constructed to protect temperature-sensitive plants during the harsh Korean winter. The arboretum functions as an educational facility, providing public access to over 3,000 distinct species of plants. The landscaping integrates natural rolling terrain with curated rock gardens and traditional Korean pond features.
The wooden walkway overlooking the central lotus pond, particularly during the blooming season.
Bring comfortable walking shoes as the extensive trail system is primarily unpaved or composed of loose gravel.
Utilize the designated rest areas near the pond, as these offer the most shade during high-sun hours.
Check the official arboretum website for seasonal festival dates, such as the rose blooming period in early summer.
Do not attempt to access the arboretum from the expressway lanes themselves; use the local access roads provided.
Closed on Mondays and major public holidays; typically closed on the day following a public holiday if it falls on a weekend.
Refrain from picking flowers or walking off designated paths to protect the sensitive research soil.
