Korean surnames hold great historical and cultural meaning. They often reflect a family’s ancestry, place of origin, or certain qualities. Most of these surnames come from ancient Chinese characters, called Hanja, each carrying unique meanings related to nature, virtues, or history. While there are hundreds of Korean surnames, a large portion of the population shares just a few—like Kim, Lee, and Park.
Typically, Korean last names are made up of one syllable and are passed down through families, connecting people to clans and regions. Each surname may branch into different clans, known as bon-gwan, which point to a specific hometown or origin.
In this list, we will explore 180 common Korean surnames, their meanings, and the history behind them, giving you a deeper understanding of their cultural and symbolic significance.
Korean last names or Surnames with Meanings
Korean last names and meanings
1. Hwang
Hwang is of Chinese origin and means ‘yellow’. It is a common surname in Korea.
2. Kim
Kim, originating from the Chinese word ‘Jin’, means ‘gold’. It is one of the most prevalent surnames in Korea.
3. Yoon
Yoon refers to ‘the eldest’ in a family. This surname is widely used in Korea.
4. Choi
Choi is a Korean surname meaning ‘high tower’ or ‘lofty’. It signifies elevation or prominence.
5. Oh
Oh is a Korean surname that refers to the ancient state of Wu, which was located in Jiangsu province, China.
6. Yeon
Yeon is derived from the word ‘Juan’, and it signifies ‘beautiful’ or ‘graceful’. This surname has a refined connotation.
7. Jeong
Jeong is derived from the ancient state name ‘Zheng’, and it represents historical significance.
8. Roh
Roh is a Korean surname with roots in the Chinese word meaning ‘a musical note’. It carries a cultural touch.
9. Sung
Sung is a variant of ‘Song’, originating from the Song dynasty. It symbolizes the historical and cultural heritage.
10. No
No is a short Korean surname derived from the Chinese word meaning ‘field’ or ‘wilderness’.
11. Im
Im, also spelled ‘Lim’, means ‘forest’. This surname has natural connotations.
12. Park
Park, a variant of ‘Bak’, means ‘simple’ in Korean. It denotes simplicity and straightforwardness.
13. Byun
Byun is derived from the Chinese surname Bian, meaning ‘excitable’ or ‘impatient’. It can also denote ‘edge’ or ‘border’.
14. Hong
Hong is a Chinese-origin surname meaning ‘great’. It reflects grandeur and importance.
15. Bae
Bae, also spelled ‘Bai’, refers to ‘a pear’. It is a common surname in Korea.
16. Kwon
Kwon is a Korean surname that means ‘power’ or ‘authority’. It indicates strength and leadership.
17. Jin
Jin, a Chinese-origin surname, means ‘gold’. It carries connotations of wealth and value.
18. Chae
Chae comes from the Chaegal clan, with historical presence in southern Gyeongsang and Jeolla provinces.
19. Goe
Goe is a Korean surname meaning ‘high’. It signifies elevated status or position.
20. Tak
Tak is the traditional surname of a scholar from the Koryo Kingdom, reflecting academic or intellectual heritage.
21. Yoon
Yoon, referring to ‘the eldest’, signifies seniority and respect in Korean culture.
22. Suk
Suk means ‘ancient’ or ‘stone’. It symbolizes durability and longevity.
23. Ju
Ju is a Korean surname that denotes ‘circumference’ or ‘boundary’. It has a geographical implication.
24. Shin
Shin is associated with the five Shin Clans from both Chinese and Korean regions, signifying lineage and history.
25. Ye
Ye is a Korean surname of Chinese origin meaning ‘leaf’. It reflects nature and growth.
26. Chai
Chai is derived from China and means ‘firewood’. It has practical, everyday connotations.
27. Lim
Lim, also spelled ‘Im’, refers to ‘forest’. This surname is associated with nature.
28. Myung
Myung signifies ‘brilliant’. It suggests brightness and clarity.
29. Ju
Ju represents ‘circumference’ or ‘boundary’. It has a spatial or geographical significance.
30. Woo
Woo is a variant of ‘Wu’, an ancient state in Jiangsu Province. It has historical roots.
31. Chong
Chong is an occupational surname related to ‘bow-making’. It indicates a traditional craft.
32. Choi
Choi means ‘high tower’ or ‘lofty’. It denotes elevation and grandeur.
33. Kwan
Kwan is a Korean variant of ‘Guan’, meaning ‘border pass’. It reflects geographical and administrative significance.
34. Ok
Ok is a variant of ‘Oak’ or ‘Ock’, meaning ‘oaktree’. It has strong, natural connotations.
35. Paek
Paek, a variant of Baik or Paik, refers to the color white. It symbolizes purity and clarity.
36. Yeon
Yeon, a variant of ‘Juan’, means ‘beautiful’ or ‘graceful’. It reflects elegance.
37. An
An is a common Korean surname meaning ‘within’ or ‘back’. It has a relational or positional meaning.
38. Moon
Moon refers to ‘culture’ or ‘literature’. It denotes intellectual and artistic heritage.
39. Suh
Suh is derived from ‘So’, a family name of traditional emperors from the Cholla South province.
40. Roh
Roh means ‘a musical note’ in Chinese. It carries a cultural resonance.
41. Choi
Choi signifies ‘high tower’ or ‘lofty’. It implies elevation.
42. Jin
Jin means ‘gold’, symbolizing wealth and value.
43. Han
Han means ‘country’ or ‘leader’. It represents leadership and governance.
44. Yeon
Yeon means ‘beautiful’ or ‘graceful’, reflecting aesthetics.
45. Hwang
Hwang, meaning ‘yellow’, has a bright and vivid connotation.
Quick Fact:
Traditionally, Korean names are written using Hanja, which are Chinese characters adapted into Korean. Each Hanja character carries a specific meaning, so choosing the right Hanja is crucial when naming a baby. Modern Korean names are now often written in Hangul (the Korean alphabet), but the meaning still derives from the Hanja.
46. Goe
Goe, meaning ‘high’, signifies elevated status.
47. Park
Park means ‘simple’, reflecting straightforwardness.
48. Kwon
Kwon refers to ‘power’ or ‘authority’, indicating strength.
49. Jin
Jin means ‘gold’, symbolizing value.
50. Shin
Shin comes from the five Shin Clans, representing lineage and heritage.
51. Baek
Baek, also spelled Paek, refers to the color ‘white’. It symbolizes purity.
52. Choi
Choi means ‘high tower’ or ‘lofty’, indicating elevation.
53. Ye
Ye means ‘leaf’, reflecting nature.
54. Hong
Hong, meaning ‘great’, signifies importance.
55. Yeon
Yeon means ‘beautiful’ or ‘graceful’.
56. Jung
Jung means ‘upright’ or ‘righteous’. It represents integrity and moral strength.
57. Na
Na means ‘within’ or ‘inside’. It is a less common surname but still used in Korea.
58. Joo
Joo translates to ‘jewel’ or ‘precious’. It carries a sense of value and rarity.
59. Yoo
Yoo, also spelled ‘Yu’, means ‘exist’ or ‘stay’. It has historical significance in Korea.
60. Chung
Chung signifies ‘loyal’ or ‘faithful’. It is associated with reliability and dedication.
61. Ryu
Ryu means ‘willow tree’. It reflects natural beauty and flexibility.
62. Hoon
Hoon means ‘intelligent’ or ‘talented’. It denotes wisdom and skillfulness.
63. Jang
Jang refers to ‘a leader’ or ‘a general’. It is a surname linked with leadership and authority.
64. Sim
Sim means ‘heart’ or ‘mind’. It symbolizes emotional depth and thoughtfulness.
65. Yeo
Yeo means ‘beautiful’ or ‘charming’. It conveys aesthetic appeal and attractiveness.
66. Heo
Heo means ‘to surpass’ or ‘to exceed’. It implies excellence and achievement.
67. Nam
Nam means ‘south’. It is a directional surname with geographical implications.
68. Eom
Eom means ‘mother’ or ‘origin’. It signifies foundational aspects of family and heritage.
69. Hae
Hae means ‘sea’ or ‘ocean’. It reflects vastness and depth.
70. Jeon
Jeon means ‘field’ or ‘land’. It has a connection to agriculture and nature.
71. Yim
Yim is a variant of ‘Im’, meaning ‘forest’. It represents nature and tranquility.
72. O
O is a Korean surname that refers to the ‘ancient state of Wu’ located in Jiangsu province, China.
73. Ko
Ko means ‘high’ or ‘tall’. It is associated with height and prominence.
74. Hwang
Hwang means ‘yellow’. It is of Chinese origin and often signifies brightness.
75. Kang
Kang means ‘strong’ or ‘brave’. It reflects resilience and fortitude.
76. Seo
Seo means ‘auspicious’ or ‘fortunate’. It implies good fortune and prosperity.
77. Kwon
Kwon means ‘authority’ or ‘power’. It signifies influence and control.
78. Choi
Choi means ‘highest’ or ‘supreme’. It denotes a high status or position.
79. Jin
Jin means ‘gold’. It symbolizes wealth and value.
80. Park
Park, derived from ‘Bak’, means ‘plain’ or ‘field’. It reflects simplicity and clarity.
Korean last names starting with N
1. Nam
Nam translates to “south” in Korean. This surname often signifies a connection to the southern regions of Korea or historical ties to Southern dynasties.
2. Na
Na is derived from the Zhou dynasty, an ancient Chinese dynasty. This surname indicates historical or cultural connections to ancient China.
3. Nahm
Nahm is a variant of Nam, meaning “south.” It reflects a similar geographical connection and is sometimes used interchangeably with Nam.
4. No
No originates from the Chinese word meaning “field” or “wilderness.” It implies a connection to rural areas or agriculture, reflecting a historical occupation or lifestyle.
5. Noh
Noh means “strong” or “resolute” in Korean. This surname indicates a family known for its fortitude and determination.
6. Ngan
Ngan means “peaceful” or “calm.” This surname reflects a family with a legacy of tranquility and stability.
7. Nung
Nung is derived from Chinese origins and means “thick” or “strong.” It suggests a family known for its robustness or resilience.
8. Nak
Nak is a Korean surname that means “graceful” or “elegant.” This name reflects a family with qualities of sophistication and beauty.
9. Nyu
Nyu is a rare Korean surname that signifies “a form of beauty” or “charming.” It suggests a family with a reputation for grace and allure.
10. Nyu-hwa
Nyu-hwa means “flower” or “blossom.” This surname conveys beauty and a flourishing character, indicating a family with a notable presence or cultural significance.
Here are some Korean last names that start with the letter “J,” along with their meanings and additional details:
Korean Last Names Starting with J
1. Jeong
Jeong is derived from the ancient Chinese word “Zheng,” which was a state name. In Korean, it often denotes a sense of integrity and correctness, reflecting a family with a prestigious or historical background.
2. Jin
Jin is a Korean surname of Chinese origin that means “gold.” It signifies wealth, value, or high status, reflecting a family with a potentially prosperous lineage.
3. Jang
Jang means “archer” or “bowyer” in Korean. This surname indicates a family with a historical connection to archery or military traditions.
4. Jung
Jung is derived from the ancient state name “Zheng.” In Korean, it conveys meanings related to “uprightness” and “integrity,” suggesting a family with a strong moral or ethical background.
5. Joo
Joo means “jewel” or “precious stone.” This surname reflects a family’s value and significance, often implying that they are held in high regard or esteem.
6. Jeon
Jeon means “field” or “farmland.” It suggests a family with connections to agriculture or rural areas, reflecting a historical role in farming or land management.
7. Ji
Ji is derived from the Chinese word meaning “ambition” or “will.” It signifies a family with strong personal or familial aspirations and determination.
8. Jeong (정)
Jeong, a variant of Jeong, is derived from “Zheng,” reflecting a state name and a sense of authority or governance in historical contexts.
9. Joo-hyun
Joo-hyun means “bright jewel.” This surname combines the meanings of value and brilliance, indicating a family known for its prestigious and influential status.
10. Jun
Jun is derived from the Chinese character meaning “talented” or “handsome.” This surname often reflects a family known for its distinguished qualities and achievements.
Korean last names meaning dragon
These surnames, while not directly translating to “dragon,” have connections to the symbolic and mythological aspects of dragons in Korean and East Asian cultures. They reflect qualities or associations that align with the dragon’s powerful and majestic image.
Korean Last Names Related to “Dragon”
1. Jang (장 / 張)
Jang is a common Korean surname meaning “expand” or “stretch.” Dragons are often associated with expansion and strength, and this surname can symbolize a powerful and influential lineage.
2. Ryu (류 / 柳)
Ryu, also spelled as Ryoo or Yoo, means “willow tree” but is associated with a dragon in various legends and cultural references. Dragons in Korean mythology are often depicted in connection with water and nature, and willows can be symbolic of this natural association.
3. Hwang (황 / 黃)
Hwang means “yellow” or “bright.” In Korean and East Asian mythology, yellow is a color associated with imperial power and dragons, making this surname indirectly connected to dragon symbolism.
4. Song (송 / 宋)
Song is a Korean surname meaning “pine tree.” In Korean and Chinese folklore, pine trees are often associated with longevity and immortality, qualities that are also attributed to dragons.
5. Kwon (권 / 權)
Kwon means “authority” or “power.” Dragons are symbolic of immense power and authority in many East Asian cultures, so this surname reflects similar themes of strength and dominance.
6. Seo (서 / 徐)
Seo means “calm” or “gentle.” While not directly related to dragons, in Korean folklore, dragons are often depicted as majestic and regal, which can be associated with calm authority.
7. Choi (최 / 崔)
Choi means “highest” or “peak.” Dragons are often seen as reaching the highest realms of power and influence, making this surname symbolically related to the dragon’s qualities.
8. Kim (김 / 金)
Kim means “gold,” and in Korean mythology, golden dragons are revered as symbols of wealth and power. While not directly meaning “dragon,” the association with gold links it to dragon symbolism.
9. Yang (양 / 楊)
Yang means “poplar tree” but is sometimes associated with dragon lore in East Asian cultures. Poplar trees are connected to water and nature, themes closely related to dragon imagery.
10. Gong (공 / 龔)
Gong is a Korean surname meaning “respect” or “honor.” In some East Asian traditions, respect and honor are attributes associated with dragons, reflecting their revered status.
Royal Korean Last Names
Royal Korean last names are often associated with the Korean royal families and nobility throughout history. Many of these surnames are linked to specific historical clans or dynastic lineages. Here’s a list of some prominent royal Korean surnames and their meanings:
1. Lee (이 / 李)
Lee, also spelled Yi or Ri, is one of the most significant Korean surnames. It is famously associated with the Joseon Dynasty (1392–1897), which was one of Korea’s longest-ruling dynasties. The name means “plum” and is a symbol of the ruling class during the Joseon period.
2. Kim (김 / 金)
Kim is a highly prestigious Korean surname and was associated with many royal families, including the Goryeo Dynasty (918–1392) and the early Joseon Dynasty. The name means “gold,” representing wealth and high status.
3. Park (박 / 朴)
Park is a significant surname historically connected with Korean nobility. It is linked to the ancient Silla Dynasty (57 BC – 935 AD), one of Korea’s Three Kingdoms. The name means “plain” or “simple,” but it is associated with the ruling class of Silla.
4. Jeong (정 / 鄭)
Jeong is associated with the Jeong clan, which held significant influence in Korean history. The surname is derived from the ancient state name “Zheng,” reflecting a historical and authoritative lineage.
5. Choi (최 / 崔)
Choi is another prominent surname linked with Korean royalty and nobility. The name means “highest” or “peak,” reflecting its association with the elite and powerful families in Korean history.
6. Hwang (황 / 黃)
Hwang means “yellow” or “bright.” The surname is associated with royal and noble families, symbolizing imperial power and authority.
7. Gong (공 / 龔)
Gong, meaning “respect” or “honor,” is linked with significant historical figures and families that held positions of power and respect in Korean history.
8. Seo (서 / 徐)
Seo means “calm” or “gentle,” and this surname is associated with influential historical families and noble lineages in Korea.
9. Yun (윤 / 尹)
Yun is a surname with royal connotations, often associated with nobility and influential figures in Korean history. The character 尹 reflects authority and high status.
10. Kwon (권 / 權)
Kwon means “authority” or “power.” This surname is associated with families that had significant political influence and power in Korea’s historical context.
11. Ryu (류 / 柳)
Ryu, meaning “willow tree,” is connected to influential historical figures and noble families, reflecting their high status in Korean history.
12. Jang (장 / 張)
Jang means “expand” or “stretch.” The surname is linked with powerful and noble families, reflecting their significant influence and authority.
13. Chung (정 / 鄭)
Chung, also spelled Jeong, means “upright” or “correct.” It is associated with historical families known for their moral and authoritative roles.
14. Joo (주 / 朱)
Joo means “jewel” or “precious stone.” This surname is linked with nobility and high-ranking families, symbolizing wealth and significance.
15. Lim (림 / 林)
Lim, also spelled Im, means “forest.” It is connected to various noble families and reflects their esteemed status in Korean history.
Cute Korean Last Names
List of Korean surnames with a cute or endearing quality, based on their meanings and sounds:
These surnames are characterized by their pleasant sounds and meanings, contributing to their cute and appealing nature.
1. Bae (배 / 裵)
Bae means “pear.” The simplicity and sweetness associated with the fruit make this surname charming.
2. Noh (노 / 盧)
Noh means “dew” or “moisture,” evoking images of freshness and purity, adding to its endearing quality.
3. Hae (해 / 海)
Hae means “sea” or “ocean.” The serene and expansive imagery of the sea gives this surname a peaceful and attractive feel.
4. Seo (서 / 徐)
Seo means “calm” or “gentle.” The name suggests a serene and pleasant personality, making it quite cute.
Quick Fact:
In Korea, the family name (surname) comes before the given name, which is the opposite of naming conventions in many Western countries. For example, Kim Min-seo would be written as Min-seo Kim in Western order.
5. Mi (미 / 美)
Mi means “beauty” or “beautiful.” While not a common surname, its meaning is lovely and positive.
6. Joo (주 / 朱)
Joo means “jewel” or “precious stone.” The idea of something precious and valued makes this surname endearing.
7. Yun (윤 / 尹)
Yun means “allow” or “govern.” The soft, gentle sound contributes to its charming quality.
8. Choi (최 / 崔)
Choi means “highest” or “peak.” The crisp sound of this surname can be perceived as cute.
9. Lim (림 / 林)
Lim means “forest.” The peaceful and natural imagery associated with forests gives this surname a gentle appeal.
10. Jang (장 / 張)
Jang means “expand” or “stretch.” Its playful and approachable sound adds to its endearing nature.
11. Soo (수 / 秀)
Soo means “excellence” or “elegance.” Though not a common surname, its refined meaning adds a touch of charm.
12. Jeong (정 / 鄭)
Jeong means “upright” or “correct.” The positive meaning and pleasant sound make this surname appealing.
13. Hwan (환 / 煥)
Hwan means “bright” or “shining.” The cheerful and radiant connotations make this surname quite cute.
14. Seok (석 / 石)
Seok means “stone” or “rock.” Its dependable and solid nature gives it a sturdy yet endearing appeal.
15. Gong (공 / 龔)
Gong means “respect” or “honor.” The noble sound and its connotations of respect and dignity make it charming.
16. Pyo (표 / 標)
Pyo means “mark” or “standard.” The straightforward sound and its association with setting standards can be considered cute.
17. Kang (강 / 姜)
Kang means “ginger” or “strong.” The connection to a common spice and its robust sound give it a warm and approachable feel.
18. Hyeon (현 / 玄)
Hyeon means “mysterious” or “profound.” Its intriguing and subtle sound adds to its endearing quality.
19. Gyu (규 / 鎬)
Gyu means “pattern” or “rule.” The distinctive sound and meaning can give it a cute and unique charm.
20. Yang (양 / 楊)
Yang means “poplar tree.” The association with nature and the soft sound make this surname quite charming.
21. Im (임 / 林)
Im means “forest.” The peaceful imagery associated with forests adds a gentle and cute appeal to this surname.
22. Ro (로 / 盧)
Ro means “dew” or “moisture.” Its sound and the fresh imagery make it endearing.
23. Jin (진 / 鎭)
Jin means “treasure” or “precious.” The idea of something valuable and cherished adds to the surname’s appeal.
24. Yeon (연 / 延)
Yeon means “lotus” or “beautiful.” The association with beauty and purity gives this surname a lovely and endearing quality.
25. Sang (상 / 相)
Sang means “mutual” or “reciprocal.” The name’s harmonious sound adds a gentle and approachable feel.
26. Hae (해 / 海)
Hae means “sea.” Its vast, tranquil nature and pleasant sound contribute to its cuteness.
27. Byun (변 / 辯)
Byun means “change” or “transform.” The unique sound and the idea of transformation give it an interesting and cute quality.
28. In (인 / 印)
In means “seal” or “mark.” The simple sound and meaning add to its endearing nature.
29. Taek (택 / 澤)
Taek means “select” or “choice.” The name’s connotations of preference and quality contribute to its charm.
30. Ahn (안 / 安)
Ahn means “peace” or “safe.” The calming and reassuring meaning makes this surname quite endearing.
Unique Korean Last Names
These surnames are noted for their unique meanings and characteristics, setting them apart from more common names.
1. Ahn (안 / 安)
Ahn means “peace” or “safe.” It’s a unique surname due to its serene connotation and less frequent use.
2. Bae (배 / 裵)
Bae means “pear.” While the surname is known, its association with the fruit gives it a distinctive charm.
3. Gong (공 / 龔)
Gong means “respect” or “honor.” It’s unique for its noble meaning and relatively uncommon usage.
4. Hahm (함 / 咸)
Hahm is a surname that means “salt.” Its unusual association with a common condiment makes it unique.
5. Heo (허 / 許)
Heo means “allow” or “permit.” It is distinctive because of its meaning related to permissions and allowances.
6. Joo (주 / 朱)
Joo means “jewel” or “precious stone.” Its association with valuable items makes it unique and elegant.
7. Kang (강 / 姜)
Kang means “ginger” or “strong.” It’s distinctive for its connection to both a spice and strength.
8. Na (나 / 朴)
Na means “yearn” or “desire.” The name is unique due to its emotional and aspirational connotations.
9. Pyo (표 / 標)
Pyo means “mark” or “standard.” It’s a unique surname due to its association with setting standards or marks.
10. Ryu (류 / 柳)
Ryu means “willow tree.” Its unique association with a specific type of tree adds a natural and distinctive element.
11. Seok (석 / 石)
Seok means “stone” or “rock.” The solid and sturdy imagery of this surname makes it unique.
Quick Fact:
It’s common for Koreans to change their names or adapt them for different purposes, such as when moving to a foreign country, to make them easier to pronounce or write.
12. Sim (심 / 沈)
Sim means “sink” or “deep.” Its unusual association with depth and sinking makes it stand out.
13. So (소 / 蘇)
So means “revive” or “restore.” It is unique due to its connotations of renewal and recovery.
14. Suh (서 / 徐)
Suh means “gentle” or “calm.” Its gentle sound and meaning make it a unique and pleasant surname.
15. Yun (윤 / 尹)
Yun means “allow” or “govern.” The name’s unique connotation related to governance and allowance makes it stand out.
16. Yeo (여 / 諸)
Yeo means “various” or “many.” Its broad and inclusive meaning gives it a distinctive quality.
17. Jang (장 / 張)
Jang means “expand” or “stretch.” The idea of stretching or expanding makes it a unique surname with dynamic connotations.
18. Jin (진 / 鎭)
Jin means “treasure” or “precious.” The idea of treasure adds a valuable and unique aspect to this surname.
19. Jeon (전 / 全)
Jeon means “field” or “complete.” Its association with fields and completeness gives it a unique meaning.
20. Tan (탄 / 湯)
Tan means “display” or “exhibit.” The name’s association with showcasing or exhibiting adds a distinctive touch.
21. Toh (토 / 土)
Toh means “earth” or “ground.” Its grounding and earthy connotations make it a unique surname.
22. Choi (최 / 崔)
Choi means “highest” or “peak.” Its association with reaching the highest point makes it unique.
23. Yeon (연 / 延)
Yeon means “lotus” or “beautiful.” The name’s connection to beauty and purity adds a distinctive and lovely quality.
24. Hwang (황 / 黃)
Hwang means “yellow” or “bright.” The color and brightness associated with this surname make it unique.
25. Cho (조 / 趙)
Cho means “ancestor” or “forefather.” Its historical connotation gives it a unique and dignified quality.
