Nami Island: An Enchanting Island in South Korea which every year sees the presence of millions of people from all over the world thanks to the first kdrama that created the first Korean Hallyu "WINTER SONATA"
Historically Nami Island is known because it was named after General Nami who was a historical figure in the 15th century, known for his courage and military exploits. General Nami, lived from 1441 to 1468. Nami (1441 or 1443 – 1468) was a great commander of the Uiryeong Nam clan who lived in the period of the early Joseon Dynasty. He was the son of King Taejong (태종)'s youngest daughter, Princess Jeongseon (정선공주). General Nami was excellent in martial arts and was favored by King Sejo (세조). His numerous victories in battles led him to become Minister of War (the highest military position during the Goryeo and Joseon dynasties) in 1468.
At the young age of 26 the brilliant soldier was elected Minister of War under King Sejo precisely for having shown great courage and skill and tactical skill by stopping a revolt by Yi Si-Ae and conquering Gyeongju. Unfortunately he was accused of high treason (unjustly it seems) and during the reign of King Yejong he was sentenced to death. His tomb was hidden on the island by some of his most loyal subordinates, who hid it under piles of rocks. To protect the General's body, the inhabitants of the nearby village began to spread the word, saying that anyone who removed even just one rock from this burial place would have infinite misfortune for themselves and for future generations, today in this protected place thanks to generations of superstitious people you can find a commemorative statue of General Nami.
the island was transformed into a tourist destination in the 1960s, when it was developed to welcome visitors seeking relaxation and recreation in a natural environment. Like a fairytale village, it offers various cultural events, concerts, exhibitions and more to bring dreams and hopes to life for children, love and memories for couples and artists a space for creativity. There are many facilities including Song Museum, Picture Book Playground, MICE Center and various activities such as Charity Train, Story Tour Bus, Bicycle, Duck boats etc. While restaurants offer delicious food with carefully selected local ingredients and Hotel Jeonggwanru has themed accommodations, many souvenir shops and craft shops and outdoor bakeries prepare delicacies for you to buy and consume on the spot. In the center of the square as soon as you arrive you can find a huge fire lit in the autumn and winter months where tourists can also cook food and marshmallow skewers for themselves.
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Nami Island is famous for its seasonal beauty, which attracts tourists throughout the year. In spring, the island is colored with cherry blossoms, while in autumn it offers a spectacle of leaves in warm, bright tones. Winter transforms the island into an enchanting snow-covered landscape.
The island is a vibrant cultural hub, with numerous art installations, exhibitions and outdoor sculptures adorning the landscape. Additionally, it hosts cultural events and festivals that celebrate Korean art and tradition.
– Photo credit Paola Pelissa
Nami Island gained international fame thanks to the Korean TV drama "Winter Sonata", which filmed many of its iconic scenes on the island. This has led to an influx of fans of the drama, turning the island into a hotspot for lovers of Korean pop culture.
How to Get There
Nami Island is easily accessible from Seoul. Visitors can take a train to Gapyeong Station and then a ferry or zipline to reach the island. It is also possible to participate in organized tours that include transportation and a guide.
Nami Island offers tourists a truly magical and relaxing place where they can enjoy romantic landscapes but at the same time full of curiosities and good food, attractions for anyone big or small, who has a moment of peace and total relaxation with themselves, with their life partner and with their family, highly recommended to visit to fill your eyes and heart with serenity and harmony.
Paola Pelissa