Why Public Servants in Wonju Are Volunteering for Apple Blossom Thinning: A Community Impact Story

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PUBLIC TIMES — The Wonju City Hall Public Servants’ Labor Union said its members and their families spent about four hours on the 9th volunteering to thin apple blossoms at a farm in Danggu-dong.

Apple thinning is the practice of removing small, early fruit to reduce the number of apples on a branch so the remaining fruit can receive more nutrients and develop properly.

Recognizing that the work requires many hands within a short time window, the union launched this apple-thinning volunteer program three years ago. The farm they assisted this time is the same one they first connected with while providing aid after experiencing fruit-drop damage.

Representative Song Ki-heon, who visited the site, praised the volunteers, saying, “Public servants play a significant role in Wonju’s development, and weekend volunteer efforts like this are especially meaningful.”

Mun Seong-ho, the union chairman, said the relationship that began when they helped a hail-damaged farm three years ago has grown to include purchasing apples and supporting farm labor. “Going forward, the union will continue to promote the strength of weak ties across the local community,” he added.

Kim Seong-gon, Senior Reporter gsgs@public25.com