In celebration of World Bee Day on May 20, the Korea Forest Service announced plants to expand nectar tree forests to support honeybee protection and the beekeeping industry, contributing not only to timber production but also to biodiversity enhancement.

Since 2018, the United Nations (UN) has designated and celebrated May 20 as World Bee Day to raise awareness on the importance of bee protection. Bees play a vital role in ecosystems as pollinators and honey providers.

Nectar tress refer to tree species from which bees collect nectar and pollen. These trees serve as a critical food source directly linked to bee's survival. Since the diversity of nectar tress is an important factor in maintaining bee health, it is essential to plant a wide variety of nectar-rich trees with different flowering periods to ensure a continuous food supply.

Over the past five years (2020-2024), the Korea Forest Service has planted an average of 3,600 ha of nectar tree forests per year across the country. Major species planted include Tulip tree (blooming in May, 34.6%), Oriental raisin tree (blooming in June, 12.9%), and Cherry tree (blooming in April, 10.5%). These species serve as nectar sources and are also valued as multi-purpose trees for their special uses and landscape value.

Furthermore, the Korea Forest Service will expand nectar tree forests from its previous target of 3,000 ha last year to 4,000 ha starting this year, a 30% expansion. By 2029, a total of 20,000 ha will be established with new species such as the bee-bee tree (Tetradium daniellii), Amur linden tree (Tilia amurensis), and Ivy (Hedera rhombea), etc. To protect bee ecosystem and establish a sustainable foundation for beekeeping industry, the organization also plans to strengthen research on nectar resources, including the discovery of new nectar-producing tree species.