Flowers in bloom in the family of Kang Su Gi

As spring comes, many families in Pyongyang are eager to grow flowering plants in their houses. Among them is the family of Kang Su Gi, an old man living in neighbourhood unit No. 4 of Tongan-dong No. 2, Central District.

His family cultivates over a dozen species of ornamental flowers in flowerpots, and the number has increased to nearly 70.

The beautiful, fresh and green flowers are arranged in good harmony with each other according to the sunshine and plant ecology, presenting a superb view reminiscent of an elegant flower show.

According to Yun Mi Suk, head of the neighbourhood unit,  his house is filled with various kinds of flowers not only in the rooms but also in the balconies early in May, and they are in full bloom especially in summer, unfolding a spectacular and enchanting sight.

They have been cultivated by Yon Kyong Suk, the wife of this old man, for more than 10 years.

According to Yon, she was greatly influenced by her father, who had been devoted to the cultivation of flowers, from her childhood.

Seeing the flowers beautifully cultivated by his father who loved his family very much and was so passionate, she began to cultivate a love of her family, society and nature.

Later, she had worked for years as a teacher for the education of younger generations, but suddenly fell ill in the middle years of her life and had to give up teaching.

She took up embroidery or knitting at home to comfort herself, but after some time she felt stiff in her neck, shoulders and spine and as she grew older, her eyesight failed and she got into increasing difficulties.

But these symptoms gradually disappeared after she began to grow flowers, she said.

Flower cultivation is very effective in stabilizing mental state, developing the whole body and leading an emotional life, Yon Kyong Suk said, adding that she rediscovered joy and optimism, injecting renewed vitality and vigour to her family.

Shortly ago, dozens of potted flowers from her friends and enthusiasts of flower cultivation were added to her property.

After thinking where to put them all for several days, she made up her mind to distribute potted flowers with high ornamental value that she had cultivated with great care to her neighbours to give pleasure to them and contribute to beautifully decorating the street and village.

"Joy gets greater when it is shared by many. I wanted to share the joy of enjoying beautiful flowers with the villagers who have long been worried about my poor health and taken warm care of me," Yon said.