Korean last names, also known as family names or surnames, are shared by members of the same clan or lineage. Korean last names have a long history and inheritance patterns that reflect Korea’s rich cultural heritage. Many Korean family names include Chinese characters based on meanings related to virtues, places, animals, objects or occupations.
Korean surnames are typically only one syllable, unlike Chinese surnames which often have two syllables. The most popular Korean last names cover a large percentage of the population, while some clan names are incredibly rare. Below is a list of common and interesting Korean last names and meanings:
Kim (김): There are several origin theories for this most popular Korean last name meaning "gold". One is that it derives from the Kim clan's city of residence during ancient times. Another ties it to "gum", the word for "sword" in pure Korean language, reflecting the clan's influential sword makers.
Lee (이): This name has unclear meanings, but is likely derived from "yi" meaning "excellent" or "resemble". It is a very old surname in Korea and represents influential aristocratic bloodlines.
Park (박): Meaning "magnolia", this name originates from the founder of the Park clan who lived during the Silla dynasty near a magnolia tree. Magnolias symbolize nobility and perseverance.
Choi (최): Traces back to a wealthy clan descending from a government officer in an early Korean kingdom. It means “the foremost” or “leader” and suggests the family's powerful status.
Jung (정): Represents a clan from a district in Seoul where many government offices operated. Its meaning of "character" or "virtue" reflects values deemed important for officials.
Chang (장): Means "craftsman" and first designated the clan's ancestral profession of making bows, arrows and other weapons.
Choi (최): Derives from the highest ministerial position in a Korean kingdom. This name signifies the family's influential status.
Chung (청): Originated from a clan living within the walls of an ancient city. The name appropriately means "inner walls".
Han (한): Reflects the conquests and territory of this family's ancestors in an ancient Korean kingdom. It translates to "great" or "vast".
Hong (홍): Denotes a clan descending from a nobleman honored for outstanding scholarship and virtue. The name symbolizes the color red and "broad-minded."
Hwang (황): As the color yellow was associated with earth and power in ancient Asia, this prominent clan name means "yellow" and conveys the family's historical influence.
Jang (장): One of the most common names, it fittingly translates to "craftsman" as this family specialized in building royalty's palaces.
Jeon (전): Originated from ancestors governing a large fertile region during medieval times. The name befits this role, as it means "field."
Kang (강): Meaning "river", this name derives from the dwellings of families along an important river during the inception of Korean last names. It represents strength and lifeblood.
Kim (김): Believed to mean “gold,” this popular name designated clans of wealthy nobles, successful scholars and royal in-laws over many dynasties.
Ko (고): Reportedly began from descendants of an ancient kingdom's nobility. It fittingly translates as “noble” and “high.”
Kwon (권): Denotes a clan entrusted with administrative authority and governance. Appropriately, the name means “power” or “authority.”
Lee (이): Originated from influential aristocrats in Korea's early kingdoms. It means “excellent” and “resemble,” fitting for families of prestige.
Min (민): Initially indicated a clan from a region called Minju, the name translates as “quick” or “clever” suggesting intellectual abilities.
Moon (문): Means “writing” or “literature” designating scholarly officials who served Korean royalty by recording history and creating language.
Park (박): From Silla nobility governing near blossoming magnolia trees, this name means “magnolia” representing perseverance and nobility.
Seo (서): Reportedly began from an elite clan of architects and scholars. Fittingly, it translates as “calm” and “poised.”
Shin (신): Derived from China's Zhen clan, the name spread to early nobility in Korean kingdoms. It means "new" or "renew," conveying the family's fresh start.
Song (송): Originated from descendants of nobility located by pine trees. The name references this greenery and means "pine tree."
Sung (성): Initially indicated families living within fortress walls, as "sung" translates to “fortress” or “castle.” It suggests protection and security.
Yoon (윤): Denotes descendants of high ministers to Korean kings. Appropriately, the name means “allow” and “permit,” reflecting the family's authority.
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