First commemorative planting ceremony set for Oct. 23; applications open Tuesday via the district website
Participants who purchase trees through the Seoul Metropolitan Forestry Cooperative receive 50% cost support; direct purchase also available
Mapo-gu will hold the first commemorative planting ceremony of its "One Household, One Tree" project on Oct. 23, inviting residents to plant and tend a tree that marks a cherished family milestone — a marriage, a birth, a child's first day of school.
The district has been expanding green space and shade in residential areas through its "Plant 5 Million Trees Again" project, promoting a culture in which residents incorporate tree planting and care into their daily lives.
The ceremony is part of that effort. Residents choose their own tree and plant it in a park, green belt or unused plot of land, then attach a nameplate bearing the planter's name and personal story. The initiative lets families preserve a living memory while helping cultivate green space in their neighborhood.
Commemorative planting sessions will be held once per quarter — four times a year in total — with up to 50 trees planted at each session.
Residents who wish to participate may download an application form from the Mapo-gu district website starting Tuesday, fill it out and submit it by email to the designated officer, or apply by scanning a QR code posted on the website.
Participants may purchase their preferred tree species on their own and bring it on the day of the event. Those who find purchasing or transporting a tree difficult may order through the Seoul Metropolitan Forestry Cooperative, details of which are listed on the Mapo-gu website. Trees ordered through the cooperative can be picked up on-site on the day of the ceremony.
The cooperative offers a wide selection of species, including Korean fringe tree, Yoshino cherry, kousa dogwood, cornelian cherry, Japanese apricot, Acer triflorum, Japanese yew, Korean maple, whitebeam and rugosa rose.
The district will cover 50 percent of the purchase price for participants who buy their tree through the Seoul Metropolitan Forestry Cooperative, drawing on support from civic organizations and other external partners. In addition, all participants will receive tree stakes, soil conditioner and a commemorative nameplate.
Community gardeners will also be on hand on planting day. These are residents who have completed district-run training and regularly help maintain local parks and gardens. At the event, they will guide participants on proper planting techniques and tree care.
"Research shows that suicide rates decline as residential green space increases, which means urban trees and greenery play an important role in residents' emotional well-being and quality of life," Mapo-gu District Mayor Yoo Dong-gyun said. "I hope this commemorative planting becomes an opportunity for families to remember precious moments through a living tree, and for residents to join us in nurturing green space in their neighborhoods."
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