Warm Trees 2025 Launches with a Celebration of Korean Culture
The much-loved ‘Warm Trees’ has returned to the National Arboretum Canberra, transforming the winter landscape into a vibrant celebration of colour, creativity, and cultural connection. The official launch event was held on Wednesday 2 July 2025 at the Arboretum’s Visitors Centre, where guests were welcomed by traditional Korean Lanterns that lined the entry pathway.
With over 100 guests in attendance, the event began with a warm welcome and Acknowledgement of Country by Stuart Jeffress, Executive Branch Manager of the National Arboretum Canberra. Stuart then introduced Minister for Multicultural Affairs, Michael Pettersson MLA, who formally opened Warm Trees 2025.
“Warm Trees is a wonderful celebration of creativity, nature, culture and community,” said Minister Pettersson.
“It brings people together, showcasing the Arboretum’s beauty in winter, and this year highlights the strong ties between Canberra and the Republic of Korea.”
Following the Minister’s remarks, Stuart extended his thanks and invited Mike Woolley, Chair of the Friends of the National Arboretum, to speak on the community’s role in bringing the event to life.
The celebration continued with a special address by His Excellency Admiral (Retd) Seungseob SIM, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea, who officially launched the Warm Trees 2025 Exhibition. His Excellency then introduced Mr. Boyoung Kim, Head of Division at the Korean National Park Service, who shared insights into Korea’s natural heritage. Guests enjoyed a delicious afternoon tea catered by The Ginger Group, followed by a traditional Korean musical performance by PURĚ (pronounced "pu-re"), an Australia-based ensemble dressed in authentic Korean attire.The name “PURĚ” is a word inspired by the ideas of blue and purity, reflecting the group’s commitment to clarity, simplicity, and authenticity in sound. It was especially delightful when the ensemble performed a rendition of ‘Hey Jude’ and ‘Ob la di, ob-la-da’by the Beatles.
Warm Trees 2025: A Winter Celebration of Korean Culture
Running from 1 July to 10 August 2025, this year’s Warm Trees installation features hundreds of hand-crafted scarves wrapped around trees across the Arboretum. The scarves, lovingly knitted and crocheted by volunteers, are inspired by the colours of the Korean flag: red, white, blue, and black.
The installation highlights forests with tree species native to Korea, including the Japanese dogwood, Golden rain tree, and Korean red pine. At The Cutting (entry to the main building), visitors can explore a display of Korean national symbols and native flora, while the Visitors Centre hosts an exhibition on climate change and its impact on global forests.
Families can enjoy children’s workshops during the school holidays, featuring traditional Korean crafts, and the Bonsai Collection showcases the Red Pine, Korea’s national tree. In the Discovery Garden, stories of the Jeju women divers and the beloved tiger and magpie fable bring Korean folklore to life.
A Community Effort with a Lasting Impact
After the festival, all scarves are washed and repurposed into warm rugs, which are donated to local charities, continuing the spirit of giving and community that defines Warm Trees.
Warm Trees is free to visit and open daily until 10 August. Tickets apply for children’s workshops - BOOK HERE
