A Complete List of Korean Last Names & Meanings
Korean surnames, known as “seong” (성) in Korean, have a rich history and cultural significance. Unlike many Western countries, Korea has a relatively small number of surnames, with the majority of the population sharing just a handful of common family names. Here’s a comprehensive list of Korean surnames along with their meanings:
- Kim (김): “gold” or “metal”
- Lee/Yi (이/리): “plum” or “village”
- Park/Pak (박): “gourd”
- Choi/Choe (최): “pinnacle” or “high”
- Jung/Jeong (정): “righteous” or “upright”
- Kang (강): “river”
- Cho (조): “dynasty”
- Yoon/Yun (윤): “lotus”
- Jang (장): “bow” or “chief”
- Lim/Im (임): “forest”
- Han (한): “great” or “one”
- Oh/O (오): “five”
- Seo (서): “west”
- Shin/Sin (신): “trust” or “faith”
- Ahn/An (안): “peace”
These surnames often have historical origins, with many tracing back to ancient Korean kingdoms or noble families. The meanings of Korean surnames are typically derived from Chinese characters, reflecting the historical influence of Chinese culture on Korea.
It’s worth noting that while there are over 250 Korean surnames in existence, the vast majority of Koreans (roughly 98%) use only about 50 different surnames. The top three surnames – Kim, Lee, and Park – account for nearly half of the South Korean population.
In Korean culture, the surname comes before the given name, emphasizing the importance of family lineage. This naming convention reflects the Confucian values that have long influenced Korean society, particularly the emphasis on family and ancestry.
Understanding Korean surnames can provide insight into Korean history, culture, and social structures. For those of Korean descent or those interested in Korean culture, exploring the meanings and origins of these surnames can be a fascinating journey into the rich tapestry of Korean heritage.