Korea celebrates Earth Day with events across the country

Events to commemorate Earth Day on Monday took place across Korea, including tree-planting programs and campaigns to reduce the use of plastic products.

Children observe wetland creatures like frogs and tadpoles at Pyeongdume Wetland in Gwangju on Monday, during an outdoors activity in celebration of Earth Day. [YONHAP]

Events to commemorate Earth Day on Monday took place across Korea, including tree-planting programs and campaigns to reduce the use of plastic products.

First held on April 22, 1970, Earth Day is an annual event to promote and demonstrate support for environmental protection.

Korea's Ministry of Environment designated the week of April 22 to 28 as the 16th Climate Change Week, and is holding events including speeches, video production competitions and debates at Coex in Gangnam District, southern Seoul.

Government buildings in Seoul and Sejong, historic landmarks such as Sungnyemun Gate and Suwon Hwaseong Fortress and the headquarters of various conglomerates will participate in a lights out ceremony for Earth Day Monday evening.