Korean Name Generator

How Korean names work

A Korean name usually has three syllables: a one-syllable family name followed by a two-syllable given name, written together without a space. In 김서연 (gimseoyeon), 김 is the family name and 서연 the given name. The family name always comes first, and there are no middle names.

Most given names are written with two hanja chosen for their meaning, so parents often spend a long time picking them, sometimes with help from a naming expert. In some families, brothers or cousins share one syllable to show they belong to the same generation. Since the 1970s, names made from native Korean words such as 하늘 (haneul) (sky) or 한결 (hangyeol) (steadfast) have also become popular.

Names change with the times

Like everywhere, names follow fashion. 영희 and 철수 were the textbook names of the parents’ generation, while children today are more likely to be called 서연, 하은, 민준 or 도윤. Choose “Classic” in the generator for an older feel, or “Popular today” for a name that sounds young.

Writing your Korean name in English

The official system writes each syllable as spelled: 서연 becomes Seo-yeon. Many people drop the hyphen (Seoyeon), and K-pop stars often use their own spellings. Family names usually keep traditional spellings like Lee, Park and Choi; the generator shows both.

Using your Korean name

A Korean name is a fun way to feel closer to the language, and teachers often give one to students. When someone uses your name, they usually add 씨 (ssi) to be polite, or call close friends by the given name only, like 서연아. If you want your own name written in Hangul instead, try Your Name in Korean.