On May 19, 2026, the tranquil slopes of Jirisan near Sancheong-gun in South Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, were suddenly thrust into the national spotlight. A 70-year-old herbalist, simply identified as Mr. A, made a discovery that has both experts and enthusiasts abuzz: a remarkable cluster of wild ginseng roots, known locally as "cheonjong sansam," unearthed at a dizzying elevation of 900 meters.
According to the Korean Traditional Herbalist Association, Mr. A’s find included a total of 12 wild ginseng roots. Among them was a so-called "mother root," estimated to be a staggering 100 years old. This particular root, believed to have sprouted naturally and survived a century of harsh mountain conditions, is the crown jewel of the collection. But the story doesn’t end there. The entire group is a rare natural family, spanning more than five generations, grown entirely without human intervention—a lineage that, as experts note, is increasingly difficult to find in the wild.
The Association was quick to point out the exceptional quality of these roots. Evaluators praised their vibrant color, refined shape, and rich aroma, all hallmarks of top-grade wild ginseng. The total weight of the discovery? 114 grams—enough, they say, for three adults to consume. That might not sound like much, but in the world of wild ginseng, quantity is far less important than quality and age.
Perhaps most eye-catching is the appraisal value. The Association set the estimated worth at 243 million Korean won, roughly equivalent to over $175,000 USD at current exchange rates. For a handful of roots, that’s a small fortune—a testament to the reverence and demand for cheonjong sansam in Korean culture and traditional medicine.
So, what exactly is wild ginseng, and why does it command such sky-high prices? As reported by JoongAng Ilbo and corroborated by Yonhap News, wild ginseng refers to Panax ginseng that has grown naturally, deep within mountain forests, for over 50 years—untouched by human hands. Unlike cultivated ginseng, which is planted and tended to by farmers, wild ginseng is a product of chance, patience, and the natural cycle of the forest. Each root is unique, shaped by the soil, climate, and the slow passage of decades.
“The ginseng discovered this time is a naturally germinated family group, spanning more than five generations,” explained an official from the Korean Traditional Herbalist Association to Kyunghyang Shinmun. “Its color, shape, and aroma are all considered outstanding, making it a top-grade specimen.”
This particular find is notable for another reason: it’s the first discovery of wild ginseng aged 50 years or more in the Jirisan area in 2026. Despite the region’s reputation as a hotspot for such treasures, these roots are becoming increasingly scarce as overharvesting and environmental changes take their toll.
Interestingly, the timing of this year’s discovery was a little unusual. Typically, seasoned herbalists begin their search for wild ginseng later in the spring or early summer. But as the Association pointed out, South Korea experienced a significant temperature rise in April 2026. “Compared to previous years, the temperature in April was much higher, which appears to have advanced the discovery period by about ten days,” said a spokesperson. That early heat likely spurred the ginseng to emerge from its winter slumber sooner, giving Mr. A a head start on the season.
The find has stirred excitement not only among herbalists but also among locals and collectors who understand the cultural and medicinal value of wild ginseng. In Korean tradition, ginseng is more than just a root—it’s a symbol of longevity, vitality, and the enduring power of nature. For centuries, it has been used in tonics and remedies, believed to boost energy, strengthen the immune system, and promote overall health. The rarer and older the root, the greater its perceived potency and value.
But there’s also a growing awareness of the need to protect these natural treasures. Wild ginseng populations have dwindled due to overharvesting, habitat loss, and climate change. Associations like the Korean Traditional Herbalist Association are increasingly vocal about the importance of sustainable harvesting and the preservation of mountain ecosystems. Every major discovery, while cause for celebration, is also a reminder of what could be lost if current trends continue.
For Mr. A, the discovery is the culmination of decades of experience, patience, and a deep respect for the mountains. Seasoned herbalists like him are part naturalist, part detective, reading the subtle signs of the forest to find what others might miss. Their knowledge is often passed down through generations, a living link to Korea’s rich tradition of mountain foraging and herbal medicine.
The broader public, meanwhile, is left to marvel at the story—a 70-year-old herbalist, alone on a high ridge, unearthing a century-old root that has survived wars, storms, and the relentless march of time. It’s a narrative that captures the imagination, blending natural wonder, cultural heritage, and a dash of adventure.
As for what happens next, the future of these 12 roots remains to be seen. High-value finds like this often attract interest from collectors, traditional medicine practitioners, and even museums. Sometimes, they’re purchased by private individuals seeking their reputed health benefits. Other times, they’re displayed as part of cultural exhibitions, reminding new generations of the enduring connection between people and the land.
Meanwhile, the Association’s message is clear: discoveries like this are rare, precious, and deserving of both celebration and careful stewardship. As climate patterns shift and the pressures on wild habitats grow, each root unearthed is a small miracle—a testament to the resilience of nature and the enduring allure of the mountains.
In the end, the story of the Jirisan wild ginseng is one of patience, tradition, and respect for the natural world. It’s a reminder that even in an age of rapid change, there are still secrets waiting to be found—if only we know where, and how, to look.