Kang Yong Chol, once an officer of the Korean People’s Army, now serves as a ranger at the Taesong District Forestry Management Station in Pyongyang, the capital city.
Over a decade ago, upon completing his military service, Kang returned home with a clear vision: to contribute to the nation’s wealth by nurturing its green forests. Determined, he embarked on a rigorous journey of learning the intricacies of tree planting and cultivation.
Despite traversing a 16-kilometre mountainous path daily, Kang remained undeterred in his pursuit of knowledge. He visited research institutions and advanced forestry units, absorbing scientific insights and best practices to enhance tree rooting rates.
Applying this knowledge, Kang meticulously designed mixed forests, considering the symbiotic relationships among trees, local climatic and soil conditions, and the forests’ intended purposes. His method of sowing seeds directly in idle lands, rather than transplanting, yielded impressive results—trees grew taller and stronger.
Over the past decade, Kang has nurtured trees of premium species with utmost care. His dedication to forest conservation is unwavering, with a meticulous forest fire watch system established to protect his cherished forests. He insists on strict adherence to regulations by those venturing into the mountains to ensure the trees’ safety.
Thanks to Kang’s relentless efforts, thick forests now flourish under his watchful care.
To his children, Kang imparts a valuable lesson: caring for the forest requires love for the country and a vision for a brighter tomorrow.
