Nami Island (Namiseom) in 2005 was at the absolute peak of its "Korean Wave" (Hallyu) transformation. While it had been a quiet resort since the 1960s, your visit in 2005 would have placed you right in the middle of the global frenzy sparked by the K-drama Winter Sonata.
Here is a look back at what Nami Island was like during that specific era:
The "Winter Sonata" Phenomenon
By 2005, the island had become a pilgrimage site for fans from all over Asia, particularly Japan and Southeast Asia.
- The Metasequoia Lane: This iconic path of towering trees was the most photographed spot, where the lead characters (Jun-sang and Yu-jin) famously walked.
- The First Kiss Spot: You likely saw the small wooden table and the "First Kiss" glass bridge where the couple built snowmen.
- Statues & Posters: Life-sized bronze statues of the stars (Bae Yong-joon and Choi Ji-woo) were installed around this time, along with countless stills and posters from the drama scattered throughout the woods.
- Drama Memorabilia: You may recall seeing the bicycles used in the show and large posters displayed throughout the woods.
Key Features :
- General Nami’s Tomb: The island is named after General Nami, a 15th-century figure. You likely passed the large stone mound (his memorial tomb) near the entrance.
- No Telephone Poles: One of the unique things about Nami Island even then was the absence of overhead wires; all cables were buried underground to preserve the "natural" feel for filming and tourism.
- The Ostriches: Known as "Nami-strich," these birds were a quirky staple of the island, often seen wandering in their enclosure or being a bit cheeky with tourists.
- The Bicycles: Since cars are banned, renting a tandem or single bicycle was (and still is) the primary way most visitors explored the 4-kilometer circumference.
- The "Naminara Republic": In 2005, the island was beginning its whimsical branding as a self-declared "micronation," requiring visitors to pass through a "visa" and "immigration" process at the ferry terminal.
The iconic Winter Sonata statue on Nami Island, South Korea, on December 24, 2005. The statue commemorates one of the most famous scenes from the hit 2002 K-drama, which was primarily filmed on the island.
Nami Island & Winter Sonata
- Filming Location Nami Island became internationally famous as the primary filming location for the romantic melodrama Winter Sonata, a drama often credited with launching the "Korean Wave" (Hallyu) of Korean pop culture throughout Asia and the world.
- The Statue's Significance The bronze statue in the image depicts the show's lead characters, played by actors Bae Yong-joon and Choi Ji-woo, embracing in a scene where they shared their first kiss. It is a popular photo spot for fans visiting the island.
- Tourism Impact Following the drama's immense success, the number of visitors to Nami Island dramatically increased, making it one of South Korea's top tourist destinations year-round.
On Christmas Eve, December 24, 2005 at Nami Island provided a festive and snowy backdrop for visitors. The island is renowned as the primary filming location for the hit Korean drama Winter Sonata.
General Nami was a legendary but tragic military figure of the Joseon Dynasty. He became Minister of National Defense at the age of 27. He gained fame for quelling a major rebellion (Yi Si-ae's rebellion) and successfully fighting against the Jurchen people in the north.
After King Sejo died, a political rival named Ryu Ja-gwang falsely accused Nami of treason by misinterpreting one of the general's poems. Based on these false accusation, General Nami was executed in 1468 at the age of 28.
Hj Zulheimy Maamor
Lembah Keramat, K.L
31/12/2025: 4.32 p.m
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