100 Popular Korean Boy Names: With Meanings

Traditionally, Korean names have a rich history rooted in the Chinese zodiac. The selection process involves aligning the time, date, and year of birth with elements like water, earth, wood, metal, or fire.

This ancient practice aims to decipher the baby’s destiny, and specific characters known as hanja are chosen to counter any potential negative implications. Consequently, the pivotal factor in choosing a Korean baby name lies in the child’s birth date.

Traditionally, this intricate process was entrusted to either the child’s grandfather or a seasoned naming professional. Despite a decline in this tradition, six out of ten Korean parents still prefer seeking professional guidance for selecting their child’s name.

Notably, there is a contemporary shift in naming trends. In addition to a reduced reliance on naming professionals, there’s a growing preference for native Korean words over hanja, which are rooted in Chinese characters.

For a deeper exploration of Korean names, feel free to peruse our comprehensive guide at Korean Girl Names, where we also provide insights into Korean names for girls and offer a curated list of 400 fabulous Korean boy names.

100 Popular Korean Boy Names: With Meanings
100 Popular Korean Boy Names: With Meanings

100 Popular Korean Boy Names and Meanings

Explore a list of 100 popular Korean boy names and their meanings. Discover traditional and modern names, each with a unique significance. Perfect for those seeking meaningful names for their baby boys.

  1. Minho (민호)

Minho is a popular Korean boy’s name meaning “Brave and luminous.” Originating in Korea, it gained popularity in the late 20th century. The name signifies courage and brightness, fitting for a dynamic and radiant personality. Individuals named Minho are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, reflecting qualities of leadership and warmth.

  1. Jinwoo (진우)

Jinwoo translates to “Gentle and talented” in Korean. It has been a popular name for several decades, symbolizing a combination of kindness and skill. Originating in Korea, those named Jinwoo are often associated with the zodiac sign Virgo, emphasizing their gentle and detail-oriented nature.

  1. Taeyang (태양)

Taeyang means “Sun” in Korean and became popular in the 21st century. This name reflects brightness and positivity, much like the sun’s energy. Taeyang is associated with the zodiac sign Leo, representing warmth, vitality, and a charismatic personality.

  1. Hyeon (현)

Hyeon, meaning “Wise and virtuous,” is a traditional Korean name with enduring popularity. Originating in Korea, it is associated with the zodiac sign Libra, highlighting qualities of wisdom, fairness, and balance.

  1. Seojin (서진)

Seojin translates to “Great and precious” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 1990s, the name conveys a sense of value and significance. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Scorpio, suggesting depth, intensity, and determination.

  1. Yunseo (윤서)

Yunseo means “Wise and handsome” in Korean. A modern name gaining popularity in the 21st century, it reflects intelligence and attractiveness. Those named Yunseo are associated with the zodiac sign Sagittarius, symbolizing a blend of wisdom and charm.

  1. Donghae (동해)

Donghae translates to “East Sea” in Korean. A traditional name with enduring popularity, it evokes a sense of vastness and depth. Those named Donghae are associated with the zodiac sign Pisces, symbolizing a connection to the sea and creativity.

  1. Jiho (지호)

Jiho means “Will and goodness” in Korean and gained popularity in the late 20th century. The name signifies determination and moral integrity. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Aries, emphasizing leadership and positive energy.

  1. Byung-hun (병헌)

Byung-hun, meaning “Bright and wise,” is a traditional Korean name with consistent usage. Originating in Korea, it is associated with the zodiac sign Gemini, highlighting versatility, intelligence, and adaptability.

  1. Seungmin (승민)

Seungmin translates to “Wise and quick-witted” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 1990s, the name reflects intelligence and sharpness. Those named Seungmin are associated with the zodiac sign Virgo, symbolizing attention to detail and analytical thinking.

  1. Yeonwoo (연우)

Yeonwoo means “Gentle and talented” in Korean. A modern name with rising popularity, it combines kindness with skill. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Libra, emphasizing a gentle and harmonious nature.

  1. Jisoo (지수)

Jisoo translates to “Excellence and charm” in Korean. A popular name in the late 20th century, it signifies outstanding qualities. Those named Jisoo are associated with the zodiac sign Scorpio, suggesting magnetic charm and determination.

  1. Minseok (민석)

Minseok means “Bright and clear” in Korean. A traditional name with enduring popularity, it symbolizes clarity and radiance. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, emphasizing ambition and clarity of thought.

  1. Hyunwoo (현우)

Hyunwoo, meaning “Wise and majestic,” became popular in the late 20th century. The name signifies wisdom and grandeur. Those named Hyunwoo are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing leadership and regal qualities.

  1. Sang-hoon (상훈)

Sang-hoon translates to “Noble and handsome” in Korean. A traditional name with consistent usage, it evokes a sense of nobility and attractiveness. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Libra, symbolizing balance and charm.

  1. Junseok (준석)

Junseok means “Talented and righteous” in Korean. Popularized in the 1990s, the name reflects both skill and moral integrity. Those named Junseok are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, emphasizing a combination of talent and responsibility.

  1. Taeyong (태용)

Taeyong translates to “Eternal and brave” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 21st century, the name signifies lasting courage. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing bravery and endurance.

  1. Seung-hoon (승훈)

Seung-hoon means “Successful and handsome” in Korean. A traditional name with enduring popularity, it conveys both achievement and attractiveness. Those named Seung-hoon are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, symbolizing success and discipline.

  1. Yohan (요한)

Yohan translates to “God is gracious” in Korean. Becoming popular in the late 20th century, the name carries a sense of divine grace. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Sagittarius, symbolizing optimism and generosity.

  1. Sungmin (성민)

Sungmin means “Wise and clever” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 1980s, the name reflects both intelligence and ingenuity. Those named Sungmin are associated with the zodiac sign Virgo, symbolizing analytical thinking and practicality.

  1. Joon (준)

Joon translates to “Talented and handsome” in Korean. A modern name gaining popularity, it signifies a combination of skill and attractiveness. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, emphasizing talent and responsibility.

  1. Jin-ho (진호)

Jin-ho means “Genuine and handsome” in Korean. A traditional name with consistent usage, it conveys authenticity and attractiveness. Those named Jin-ho are associated with the zodiac sign Pisces, symbolizing creativity and compassion.

  1. Kyungsoo (경수)

Kyungsoo, meaning “Respected and exemplary,” gained popularity in the late 20th century. The name signifies both respect and being a positive example. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, emphasizing responsibility and integrity.

  1. Wonwoo (원우)

Wonwoo translates to “Shining and gracious” in Korean. A modern name with rising popularity, it signifies both radiance and kindness. Those named Wonwoo are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing warmth and generosity.

  1. Minseong (민성)

Minseong means “Bright and successful” in Korean. Popularized in the 1990s, the name reflects both brightness and achievement. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Sagittarius, symbolizing success and optimism.

  1. Jaehyun (재현)

Jaehyun, meaning “Talented and virtuous,” gained prominence in the 21st century. The name signifies both skill and moral excellence. Those named Jaehyun are associated with the zodiac sign Aquarius, emphasizing innovation and virtuous qualities.

  1. Taemin (태민)

Taemin translates to “Outstanding and handsome” in Korean. Popularized in the late 20th century, the name signifies both excellence and attractiveness. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Cancer, symbolizing emotional depth and creativity.

  1. Hoon (훈)

Hoon means “Benevolent and wise” in Korean. A traditional name with consistent usage, it conveys both kindness and wisdom. Those named Hoon are associated with the zodiac sign Aries, emphasizing benevolence and leadership.

  1. Yunseong (윤성)

Yunseong means “Wise and successful” in Korean. A modern name with rising popularity, it signifies both wisdom and achievement. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Scorpio, symbolizing determination and success.

  1. Sungho (성호)

Sungho translates to “Wise and grand” in Korean. Becoming popular in the late 20th century, the name signifies both wisdom and greatness. Those named Sungho are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, emphasizing leadership and grandeur.

  1. Gyeong-min (경민)

Gyeong-min means “Respected and quick-witted” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 1990s, the name signifies both respect and intelligence. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Gemini, symbolizing quick thinking and adaptability.

  1. Chan (찬)

Chan translates to “Brilliant” in Korean. A popular name reflecting brightness and excellence, it has been in use for several decades. Individuals named Chan are often associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing leadership and positive energy.

  1. Hyeonwoo (현우)

Hyeonwoo means “Wise and noble” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the late 20th century, the name signifies both wisdom and nobility. Those named Hyeonwoo are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing leadership and regality.

  1. Sang-min (상민)

Sang-min translates to “Noble and clever” in Korean. Popularized in the 1980s, the name signifies both nobility and cleverness. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Gemini, symbolizing versatility and intelligence.

  1. Seungjae (승재)

Seungjae means “Successful and talented” in Korean. A modern name gaining popularity, it signifies both success and talent. Those named Seungjae are associated with the zodiac sign Sagittarius, symbolizing optimism and accomplishment.

  1. Heejun (희준)

Heejun translates to “Bright and handsome” in Korean. Becoming popular in the 1990s, the name signifies both brightness and attractiveness. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing warmth and charm.

  1. Jiwon (지원)

Jiwon means “Heavenly and gracious” in Korean. A traditional name with enduring popularity, it signifies both heavenly qualities and grace. Those named Jiwon are associated with the zodiac sign Libra, symbolizing balance and harmony.

  1. Eunho (은호)

Eunho translates to “Kind and grand” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 21st century, the name signifies both kindness and greatness. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing warmth and grandeur.

  1. Yoon (윤)

Yoon means “Allowing” or “Permitting” in Korean. A popular name reflecting openness and acceptance, it has been in use for several decades. Individuals named Yoon are often associated with the zodiac sign Libra, symbolizing fairness and diplomacy.

  1. Seunghyun (승현)

Seunghyun means “Successful and virtuous” in Korean. A traditional name with consistent usage, it signifies both success and moral excellence. Those named Seunghyun are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, symbolizing responsibility and achievement.

  1. Woong (웅)

Woong means “Heroic” or “Brave” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 21st century, the name signifies heroism and bravery. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Aries, symbolizing courage and leadership.

  1. Seunggyu (승규)

Seunggyu means “Successful and valuable” in Korean. Popularized in the 1990s, the name signifies both success and value. Those named Seunggyu are associated with the zodiac sign Scorpio, symbolizing determination and significance.

  1. Jinseok (진석)

Jinseok translates to “Precious and righteous” in Korean. A modern name with rising popularity, it signifies both value and moral integrity. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, emphasizing righteousness and importance.

  1. Youngjae (영재)

Youngjae means “Talented and prosperous” in Korean. Becoming popular in the 21st century, the name signifies both talent and prosperity. Those named Youngjae are associated with the zodiac sign Aquarius, symbolizing innovation and success.

  1. Jaemin (재민)

Jaemin translates to “Talented and quick-witted” in Korean. Gaining prominence in the 21st century, the name signifies both talent and intelligence. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Virgo, symbolizing analytical thinking and skill.

  1. Wooseok (우석)

Wooseok means “Heroic and clear” in Korean. Popularized in the 1990s, the name signifies both heroism and clarity. Those named Wooseok are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, symbolizing courage and a clear sense of purpose.

  1. Jinho (진호)

Jinho translates to “Genuine and grand” in Korean. A traditional name with consistent usage, it conveys authenticity and greatness. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Pisces, symbolizing creativity and compassion.

  1. Kangmin (강민)

Kangmin means “Strong and clever” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 21st century, the name signifies both strength and intelligence. Those named Kangmin are associated with the zodiac sign Scorpio, symbolizing determination and cleverness.

  1. Jisung (지성)

Jisung translates to “Intellectual and successful” in Korean. Popularized in the 1990s, the name signifies both intellect and success. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Gemini, symbolizing intelligence and adaptability.

  1. Yeonjun (연준)

Yeonjun means “Talented and genuine” in Korean. Becoming popular in the 21st century, the name signifies both talent and authenticity. Those named Yeonjun are associated with the zodiac sign Pisces, symbolizing creativity and sincerity.

  1. Seunghwan (승환)

Seunghwan means “Successful and radiant” in Korean. A modern name with rising popularity, it signifies both success and radiance. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing leadership and brightness.

  1. Hansol (한솔)

Hansol translates to “Shining and pure” in Korean. Gaining prominence in the 21st century, the name signifies both radiance and purity. Those named Hansol are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing warmth and innocence.

  1. Hyunseok (현석)

Hyunseok means “Wise and clear” in Korean. Popularized in the 1990s, the name signifies both wisdom and clarity. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, symbolizing intelligence and a clear sense of purpose.

  1. Yunho (윤호)

Yunho translates to “Gentle and majestic” in Korean. A traditional name with enduring popularity, it signifies both gentleness and majesty. Those named Yunho are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing warmth and regality.

  1. Seokjin (석진)

Seokjin means “Precious and kind” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 21st century, the name signifies both value and kindness. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Libra, symbolizing balance and compassion.

  1. Junghoon (정훈)

Junghoon means “Righteous and grand” in Korean. A modern name with rising popularity, it signifies both moral integrity and greatness. Those named Junghoon are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing leadership and virtue.

  1. Eunki (은기)

Eunki translates to “Kind and radiant” in Korean. Popularized in the 21st century, the name signifies both kindness and radiance. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing warmth and brightness.

  1. Yonghoon (용훈)

Yonghoon means “Heroic and wise” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 1990s, the name signifies both heroism and wisdom. Those named Yonghoon are associated with the zodiac sign Aries, symbolizing courage and intelligence.

  1. Jinseon (진선)

Jinseon translates to “Precious and virtuous” in Korean. A traditional name with consistent usage, it signifies both value and moral excellence. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Libra, symbolizing balance and virtue.

  1. Minjae (민재)

Minjae means “Talented and wise” in Korean. Becoming popular in the 21st century, the name signifies both talent and wisdom. Those named Minjae are associated with the zodiac sign Capricorn, symbolizing intelligence and responsibility.

  1. Yoochan (유찬)

Yoochan means “Talented and graceful” in Korean. A modern name gaining popularity, it signifies both talent and grace. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Libra, symbolizing balance and elegance.

  1. Jiwon (지원)

Jiwon translates to “Heavenly and gracious” in Korean. A traditional name with enduring popularity, it signifies both heavenly qualities and grace. Those named Jiwon are associated with the zodiac sign Libra, symbolizing balance and harmony.

  1. Eunseok (은석)

Eunseok means “Kind and clear” in Korean. Popularized in the 1990s, the name signifies both kindness and clarity. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Pisces, symbolizing compassion and a clear sense of purpose.

  1. Jaewon (재원)

Jaewon translates to “Talented and gracious” in Korean. Gaining prominence in the 21st century, the name signifies both talent and grace. Those named Jaewon are associated with the zodiac sign Libra, symbolizing balance and elegance.

  1. Sangmin (상민)

Sangmin means “Noble and clever” in Korean. A modern name with rising popularity, it signifies both nobility and cleverness. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Gemini, symbolizing versatility and intelligence.

  1. Hyunseung (현승)

Hyunseung means “Wise and victorious” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 21st century, the name signifies both wisdom and victory. Those named Hyunseung are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing leadership and success.

  1. Minhyuk (민혁)

Minhyuk translates to “Bright and radiant” in Korean. Popularized in the 1990s, the name signifies both brightness and radiance. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing warmth and brightness.

  1. Junwoo (준우)

Junwoo means “Talented and brave” in Korean. A modern name gaining popularity, it signifies both talent and bravery. Those named Junwoo are associated with the zodiac sign Aries, symbolizing courage and skill.

  1. Jaewook (재욱)

Jaewook translates to “Talented and radiant” in Korean. Gaining popularity in the 21st century, the name signifies both talent and radiance. Individuals with this name are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing warmth and brightness.

  1. Inseong (인성)

Inseong means “Wise and victorious” in Korean. A traditional name with consistent usage, it signifies both wisdom and victory. Those named Inseong are associated with the zodiac sign Leo, symbolizing leadership and success.

  1. Baek-hyun (백현)

Baek means white, and hyun can mean, among other things, clever, shine, and string.

Byun Baek-hyun is better known as the Baekhyun member of EXO, Exo sub-group EXO-K, Exo sub-unit Exo-CBX and leader of the South Korean supergroup SuperM. Known by the nickname The Genius Idol, Baekhyun is also a 3rd dan blackbelt in hapkido.

One of South Korea’s new “Innovation Cities” is called Bitgaram. The South Korean economy is historically centered around Seoul. The ten innovation cities are meant to encourage economic growth in other areas of the countr

  1. Byung-ho (병호)

Byung-ho combines glorious, bright, luminous, and vast, numerous, great.

Park Byung-ho is a professional baseball first baseman designated hitter currently playing with the Kiwoom Heroes of the KBO League. Park signed a four-year contract with the MLB team Minnesota Twins in 2015.

  1. Chan-yeol (찬열)

Chan-yeol means bright, vivid, illuminating, and vehement, ardent, and fiery.

Chanyeol is the stage name of Park Chan-yeol, singer with EXO, sub-group EXO-K, and sub-unit EXO-SC. When not taking on the world as a popular K-Pop superstar, Chanyeol is studying Culture and Arts Department of Business Administration with Culture and Arts Department of Business Administration and Interior Design at Inha University.

  1. Dae-Hyun (대현)

Dae-hyun can mean big, great and shine, glitter, show off.

American Korean Washington Post journalist David Dae-Hyun Cho was a member of the team that won the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for their coverage of the NSA, and the team that won the Pulitzer Prize for their Virginia Tech massacre coverage.

  1. Dae-jung (대정)

Dae-jung can mean vast, great, high, and middle.

Kim Dae-jung was elected President of South Korea in 1997. In 2000, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for his work for human rights and democracy across Asia in general and with North Korea in particular.

  1. Dae-Seong (대성)

Dae-Seong combines high, vast, great, and succeeded, finished, completed.

Kim Daeseong was a chief minister of Silla, one of the three kingdoms of the Korean Peninsula. He established the temple at Bulguksa in memory of the parents in his present life and the Seokguram shrine in memory of his parents from a past life.

  1. Dal (달)

Dal means moon.

The term Dal is used for the dried split pulses, lentils, beans, and peas that do not need soaking before cooking. It is also often used for soups made with onions, tomatoes, spices, and these pulses.

  1. Dong-geun (동근)

Dong-geun can be formed by hanja, meaning east, and foundation, root.

South Korean actor, singer-songwriter, producer, and rapper Yang Dong-geun began acting in 1987. He has appeared in TV, movies, theater, and variety shows consistently since then, with a 21-month pause in 2008 when he signed up for his compulsory military service.

  1. Do-yun (도윤)

Do-yun means path, road, way, and consent, allow.

Do-yun was the number one name for newborn boys in Korea in 2017. That year 2,120 baby boys were named Do-yun.

  1. Duri (두리)

Duri means two in the Gyeongsang dialect.

Traditionally Korean names have been two syllables, each represented by a hanja character with Chinese-Korean roots. However, since the late 20th century, some parents have chosen indigenous Korean words as names, and Duri is an example.

  1. Eun (은)

There are 30 hanja that read Eun, any one of which could be used for this name. While it can be used as a stand-alone forename, it is usually an element of a two-syllable name.

The surname Eun is written with one of two hanja, meaning either kindness, affection, charity, mercy, or flourishing, many, great, abundant.

  1. Ga-eul (가을)

Ga-eul means autumn, fall.

With its simple seasonal meaning, we think Ga-eul is a beautiful Korean male name for a child born at this time of year.

  1. Ga-ram (가람)

Ga-ram is a Korean name that means river.

Traditionally, most Korean names are created using hanja, which are based on Chinese hanzi characters. Ga-ram is an example of the trend towards the use of indigenous Korean words as names.

  1. Ha-da (하다)

Ha-da is from the verb hada, which means to do.

Hada is another name for a khata, the traditional ceremonial scarf used in Tibetan Buddhism. The pretty scarfs are given during special occasions like marriages, births, and funerals.

  1. Haneul (하늘)

The gender-neutral Korean name Haneul means sky, heaven.

Only hanja on the South Korean government’s approved list can be used when registering names. The only hanja that represents neul isn’t on the list, so parents who want to register hanja use those that read Ha-neul.

  1. Han-wool (한울)

Han-wool means heavenly.

Han-wool is an ancient Korean version of the word haneul, which means sky or heaven. However, rather than having the wider sky, heaven, or similar noun meaning of haneul, Han-wool is an adjective.

  1. Ha-ru (하루)

Ha-ru is Korean for day.

In addition to being an indigenous Korean name, Ha-ru is also a Japanese name that means springtime, sun, sunlight, sunny, or sunlight. We think this makes it a unique name for families of mixed heritage who have a baby born on a sunny day.

  1. Him-chan (힘찬)

Him-chan means strong.

In addition to being an indigenous Korean word that has been co-opted for use as a name, Himchan is also the name of a group with eight orthopedic hospitals in South Korea.

  1. Ho (호)

There are 47 hanja reading Ho. The most popular mean tiger, abundant, or heroic.

South Korean actor Im Ho graduated with a bachelor’s degree in theater and film from the private Chung-Ang University. Since 2001, he’s performed in TV and movie roles, including the hugely successful period drama, Dae Jang Geum.

Jung Ho-seok is better known as J-Hope, singer with BTS, songwriter, record producer, and solo artist. J-Hope’s single Chicken Noodle Soup featured Becky G and entered the charts at number 81. This made him the first BTS member to have a top 100 single recorded outside of the group.

  1. Hwan (한)

Some of the 21 hanja that read Hwan mean anxiety, happiness, and to shine.

Hwan is usually an element in a two-syllable name or a surname. In the 2000 South Korea census, there were 157 people with the surname Hwan.

  1. Hye (혜)

Hye is often written with the hanja 慧, which means wisdom.

King Hye of Baekje ruled briefly from 598 to 599 and was one of the country’s last rulers. The kingdom of Baekje was located on the southwest of the Korean peninsular, and it fell to neighboring Silla in 660.

  1. Hyun (현)

There are 42 hanja that read Hyun, including those for worthy, virtuous, and shine.

Science-fiction writer Joh Hyun sometimes adopts an alien alter-ego who describes himself as a “special correspondent on Earth for the planet of Klaatu.” One of Hyun’s novels, l The Elegant Philosophy of the Paper Napkin, tells of a pair of cyborgs sent to Earth to study humans.

  1. Hyun-jung (현정)

With 42 hanja reading Hyun and 84 reading Jung, there are 3,528 possible pairs of meanings for Hyun-jung.

South Korean football coach Yang Hyun-jung began his career as a player. He won 2000 Rookie of the Year and appeared for the national under-20’s team in the 1997 FIFA World Youth Championship. However, a cruciate ligament injury cut short his playing career.

  1. Hyun-woo (현우)

Hyun-woo can mean prominent, display, to manifest, and protect, assess.

When using the Revised Romanization system approved by the National Institute of Korean Language, the hanja 顯祐, which reads Hyun-woo, is transcribed as Hyeon-u.

  1. Il-sung (일성)

Il-sung combines day, sun, with finished, succeeded, completed.

Kim Il-sung founded North Korea in 1948 and ruled until his death in 1994. Kim rose to power after the Japanese rule ended in 1945 and authorized the invasion of South Korea in 1950.

  1. Iseul (이슬)

Iseul is Korean for dew.

Pronounced EE-SUL, this cute, gender-neutral Koren name has become popular in recent years, although not so popular as to have become common.

  1. Jae (재)

The gender-neutral Korean name Jae can mean ability, talent, wealth, and riches.

Korean-American singer Park Jae-hyung is known professionally as Jae. After making it to the finals of the first series of K-Pop Star, Jae joined Day6. The group is currently on hiatus while Jae focuses on his mental health.

  1. Jae-sung (재성)

The Korean boys’ name Jae-sung can mean exist, rule, or kill, and finished, sincere, honest.

Boxer Lee Jae-sung is a South Korean professional boxer fighting in the featherweight division. Lee was the Korean National Super-Bantamweight Champion.

  1. Jeong-ho (정호)

There are multiple ways of writing Jeong-ho, such as with jeong meaning tablet and ho meaning to like.

Kim Jeong-ho is thought to have walked the entire Korean peninsula to compile the Daedongyeojido, a large-scale map of Korea printed in 1861. Consisting of 22 separate booklets, the whole map measures 22 feet long and 12 feet wide.

  1. Jeong-hui (정후)

The name Jeong-hui can be created by combining hanja that mean correct, proper, right, gentle, still, or quiet with beauty, glorious, bright, or splendid.

Gim Jeong-hui is considered one of the great Korean scholars of the Joseon period, which ran from 1392 to 1897. Celebrated for his study and translation of inscriptions on ancient monuments, he was also a prominent calligrapher and painter.

Also, see

Korean Gothic Last Names

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