National Tree of North Korea (DPRK)

For centuries, the Korean people planted and cultivated pine trees, and depicted them in art work and ornaments, as a symbol of long life and perseverance.

There is a Korean proverb: “In winter we can know that pine is green, meaning a hero is only known in the time of misfortune”. (Explore DPRK, 2018)

The pine has been chosen as the official national tree of North Korea due to its qualities as a "perseverant" tree, representing the national spirit of the country.

Mount Kumgang, one of the most significant mountains in the country, features extensive, iconic forests of Korean red pine, alongside maples, which create a colourful display in the autumn.