In the early morning at Hwaeomsa Temple in Gurye, South Jeolla province, a head monk is sweeping beside the vividly blooming red plum blossoms. The tree was planted during the Joseon Dynasty under King Sukjong's reign and has been blossoming with every spring for over 300 years. / O Jong-chan.

The red plum blossoms at Hwaeomsa, a temple in South Jeolla Province, have been named a natural monument. The Cultural Heritage Administration finalized the designation on Jan.24, officially naming it “Hwaeommae Plum of Hwaeomsa Temple,Gurye.”

The red plum blossoms, attracting a crowd of photographers every spring when they bloom red, are nicknamed “Black plum blossoms” for their beautiful black-and-chestnut color. The 9-meter-tall red plum blossoms were planted next to Gakhwangjeon Hall to commemorate the reconstruction of Hwaeomsa temple, which was burned during Japanese invasions of Korea (1592-1598) but restored during King Sukjong’s region (1674- 1720). For over 300 years since then, the tree bursts into bloom at the exact location every mid-March.

The red plum blossoms at Hwaeomsa, Gurye." / Hwaeomsa

Home to two other natural monuments - a winter-flowing cherry tree and wild plum blossoms - as well as possessing five national treasures and nine treasures, the temple is recognized as a national heritage site.

The red plum blossoms at Hwaeomsa designated as a natural monument. / Hwaeomsa

“The red plum blossoms have bloomed every year for more than 300 years, bringing endless emotions to the people,” said Monk Deokmoon, the chief monk at Hwaeomsa. “We hope the clear and pure aura of the red plum blossoms, designated as a natural monument, will bring happiness to the people who visit Hwaeomsa Temple.”