The national flower of North Korea is the Magnolia sieboldii, specifically the variety known as “Mokran” or “Mokran Magnolia.” This white magnolia species is native to the Korean Peninsula and is a symbol of the country. Magnolia sieboldii is known for its large, fragrant white flowers with a distinctive cup-like shape and vibrant red seeds in the center, which add to its visual appeal. The Mokran Magnolia is regarded with cultural and national significance in North Korea.
Magnolia sieboldii, also known as Korean Mountain Magnolia, is native to Korea and blooms throughout the summer. Conveniently, it is considered one of the hardiest Magnolias and can thrive in harsh environments. Called mongnan or mokran in Korean, it is the national flower of North Korea, although it shares this status with more culturally contrived choices such as Kimjongilia and Kimilsungia, named after the country’s two late leaders Kim Jong-Il and Kim Il-Sung.
According to North Korean legend, as reported on the DPRK’s official tourism website, “When he visited Mount Jongbang one year, Chairman Kim Il Sung told some officials that he saw a beautiful flower on the mountain during the days of the Changdok School and asked them to find out where it was… He did not forget the flower even during the days of the anti-Japanese war.
Later, the flower was discovered on the mountain under the deep interest of General Kim Jong Il.” Following the North Korean custom of adding the suffix “-ran” to flowers considered beautiful, Kim Il Sung named the flower “mokran”, which literally means “beautiful flower growing on a tree”.
What is North Korea’s national tree?
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, North Korea does not have an officially designated national tree. Many countries have national symbols and emblems, including national trees, but I do not have information about North Korea designating a specific tree as its national tree.
Please note that the situation may have changed since my last update, so it’s possible that North Korea has designated a national tree since then. I recommend checking the most recent and reliable sources or official government websites for any updates on this topic.