Korean Gang Names: A Guide to Understanding the Meanings

Korean gang names, often called "paek," are a fascinating aspect of Korean culture. These names, often translated as "faction" or "clique," carry significant weight and symbolism. Understanding their meanings reveals insights into Korean history, social dynamics, and the complex world of organized crime. This list explores a variety of Korean gang names, delving into their origins and meanings.
1. **Black Dragon (흑룡, Heukryong):** Represents strength, power, and dominance. It's often associated with a relentless fighting spirit.
2. **Tiger (호랑이, Horangi):** Symbolizes courage, ferocity, and the ability to overcome any obstacle. It's a popular choice for gangs known for their aggression.
3. **Wolf (늑대, Neukdae):** Represents loyalty, teamwork, and a pack mentality. These gangs are often known for their close bonds and fierce protection of their own.
4. **Eagle (독수리, Doksuri):** Symbolizes keen observation, sharp intellect, and the ability to soar above the competition. It's associated with gangs that strategize and plan effectively.
5. **Phoenix (불사조, Bulsajo):** Represents rebirth, resilience, and the ability to rise from the ashes. It's often chosen by gangs that have overcome significant challenges.
6. **White Tiger (백호, Baekho):** Symbolizes purity, strength, and protection. It's a popular choice for gangs that value justice and fairness.
7. **Red Dragon (적룡, Jeokryong):** Represents passion, ambition, and the ability to ignite change. It's often associated with gangs known for their boldness and rebellious spirit.
8. **Snake (뱀, Baem):** Represents cunning, stealth, and the ability to strike quickly and decisively. It's often chosen by gangs known for their undercover operations.
9. **Dragon Claw (용발톱, Yongbaltop):** Symbolizes sharp, precise, and powerful force. It's associated with gangs known for their tactical prowess.
10. **Blood Dragon (피룡, Piryong):** Represents ruthlessness, determination, and the willingness to shed blood for their cause. It's often associated with gangs known for their violent tactics.
11. **Iron Fist (철권, Cheolkwon):** Symbolizes unwavering strength, unyielding resolve, and the ability to crush opposition. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their dominance.
12. **Golden Dragon (금룡, Geumryong):** Represents wealth, prestige, and the ability to control resources. It's often associated with gangs involved in lucrative operations.
13. **Ghost (유령, Uryong):** Represents stealth, mystery, and the ability to operate unseen. It's a popular choice for gangs that specialize in espionage and covert actions.
14. **Demon (악마, Akma):** Represents fear, intimidation, and the ability to instill chaos. It's often chosen by gangs known for their brutality and cruelty.
15. **Thunder (천둥, Cheondong):** Represents power, force, and the ability to strike with devastating impact. It's often associated with gangs that are known for their swift and decisive actions.
16. **Shadow (그림자, Geurimja):** Represents secrecy, concealment, and the ability to disappear without a trace. It's often chosen by gangs that specialize in covert operations.
17. **Sword (검, Geom):** Represents sharpness, precision, and the ability to strike with deadly accuracy. It's a popular choice for gangs known for their martial arts skills.
18. **Fire (불, Bul):** Represents passion, aggression, and the ability to burn brightly. It's often associated with gangs known for their intense rivalries.
19. **Storm (폭풍, Pokpung):** Represents fury, intensity, and the ability to wreak havoc. It's often chosen by gangs that are known for their violent outbursts.
20. **Night (밤, Bam):** Represents darkness, secrecy, and the ability to operate under the cover of night. It's a popular choice for gangs that specialize in stealth and covert operations.
21. **Viper (살모사, Salmosa):** Represents venom, cunning, and the ability to strike quickly and effectively. It's a popular choice for gangs known for their ruthless tactics.
22. **Sky (하늘, Haneul):** Represents ambition, aspiration, and the desire to reach for the highest heights. It's often associated with gangs that are known for their drive and determination.
23. **Ocean (바다, Bada):** Represents vastness, depth, and the ability to navigate the currents of change. It's often chosen by gangs that are known for their strategic thinking and adaptability.
24. **Samurai (사무라이, Samurae):** Represents honor, loyalty, and the ability to fight for what they believe in. It's a popular choice for gangs known for their disciplined and respectful code of conduct.
25. **Warrior (전사, Jeonsa):** Represents courage, strength, and the willingness to defend their territory. It's often associated with gangs that are known for their fighting prowess.
26. **King (왕, Wang):** Represents power, dominance, and the ability to rule over others. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their leadership and influence.
27. **Emperor (황제, Hwangje):** Represents supreme authority, dominion, and the ability to command vast resources. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their wealth and influence.
28. **Cobra (코브라, Kobeura):** Represents deadly, swift, and powerful force. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their ruthless tactics.
29. **Blood (피, Pi):** Represents sacrifice, loyalty, and the willingness to shed blood for their cause. It's often associated with gangs that are known for their unwavering dedication.
30. **Iron (철, Cheol):** Represents hardness, strength, and the ability to withstand pressure. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their resilience and determination.
31. **Stone (돌, Dol):** Represents unwavering strength, unyielding determination, and the ability to withstand any obstacle. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their solid foundations.
32. **Black Rose (검은 장미, Geomeun Jangmi):** Represents beauty, danger, and the ability to lure others in. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their charisma and allure.
33. **Phantom (유령, Uryong):** Represents mystery, secrecy, and the ability to operate unseen. It's a popular choice for gangs that specialize in undercover operations.
34. **Reaper (사신, Sasin):** Represents death, fear, and the ability to bring about an end. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their ruthless tactics.
35. **Crimson Dragon (진홍룡, Jinhongryong):** Represents passion, ambition, and the ability to ignite change. It's often associated with gangs known for their boldness and rebellious spirit.
36. **Steel (강철, Gangcheol):** Represents strength, resilience, and the ability to withstand any challenge. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their toughness and durability.
37. **Fury (분노, Bunno):** Represents anger, aggression, and the ability to unleash devastating force. It's often associated with gangs that are known for their violent tendencies.
38. **Black Hand (흑수, Heuksu):** Represents power, intimidation, and the ability to exert control. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their ruthlessness and dominance.
39. **White Wolf (백늑대, Baekneukdae):** Represents purity, loyalty, and the ability to hunt down their prey. It's often associated with gangs known for their stealth and precision.
40. **Golden Tiger (금호, Geumho):** Represents wealth, power, and the ability to command respect. It's a popular choice for gangs that are known for their influence and prestige.