Jieun Luna Park

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There are two carinal sins from which all others spring: impatience and laziness.

(Franz Kafka)


Botanical Society: Cistus

Self-initiated project
170 x 240 mm, 20 pages
2023

The cistus, indigenous to the Mediterranean, has a unique self-destructive mechanism. When temperatures surpass 35 degrees Celsius, it releases a highly flammable substance, enabling it to self-ignite as a form of suicide. This combustion not only consumes the cistus but also the neighboring plants, occasionally leading to widespread forest fires. Before engaging in this unusual act of self-destruction, the cistus plants strategically scatter fire-resistant seeds. This is done to ensure that their descendants can thrive in optimal conditions, requiring ample sunlight and fresh fertilizer for germination.

I see parallels between the characteristics of the cistus plant and the behavior of self-centered parents. Presently, in Korean society, there is an ongoing problem of individuals abusing their influence to secure success for their children, involving actions like cheating in entrance exams, concealing crimes, and engaging in deceptive employment practices.

I created an imaginary magazine called “Botanical Society,” using the distinctive traits of intriguing plants to narrate stories addressing social issues. Through the presentation of both real-life instances and fictional content, my goal is to raise awareness and encourage people to reconsider particular social problems.