After passing through the Donhwamun Gate, you'll come upon a path flanked by eight locust trees. They were also called scholar trees, as the freely stretched branches symbolized the wide range of academics. Thus, they were the symbol of the three high state councilors during the Joseon Dynasty.

The scholar trees are old trees that are estimated to be over 300 to 400 years old. They each stand about 15-16 m high with a breast-high circumference of 90-178 cm. That’s why they have been designated as Natural Monument No. 472. A painting of Changdeokgung Palace painted in the mid-1820s was also found to be painted with the scholar trees.

The trees planted here in Changdeokgung Palace have a special meaning. Since the Joseon Dynasty, the scholar trees have been planted at the entrance of the royal palace as prescribed in the Rites of Zhou, which contained the content of Chinese ancient palace architecture. According to the book, the entrance is used by the king to meet with his three high ministers, high officials, and members of the aristocracy who are equal to the current Prime Minister, Chief Justice, and Speaker of the National Assembly.

The scholar trees were originally a rare foreign species that was difficult to find in Korea. They were planted with the seeds brought from China, which were valuable and precious in the old days. Therefore, they were planted in important places such as palaces, private academic institutions, and district schools.

Furthermore, there is a tree even older than the scholar trees inside Changdeokgung Palace. That’s the juniper, which is 750 years old. Shall we try to find it together while walking around in the palace?