Three pine trees inside Korea’s UNESCO-listed Pilam Seowon in Jangseong have been confirmed infected with pine wilt disease, according to Namdo Ilbo. The historic academy contains about 460 pine trees, raising concern that the disease could spread through the grounds and nearby woodland. Jangseong County’s request to thin infected trees behind the site has remained under review by the National Heritage Administration for about a month because forest work around cultural heritage requires approval.
Forestry officials say infected trees should be removed and processed during the winter, while valuable trees should receive preventive injections.