Why millions of Koreans share the same surnames
If you meet several people from Korea, you might notice that many of them share the same surnames—like Kim, Lee (also spelled as Yi or Rhee), and Park (also spelled as Bak). In fact, more than 20% of Koreans have the surname Kim, while Lee and Park are also very common. This might seem strange at first, but these shared surnames tell a deep story about Korean history, culture, and identity.
Korean surnames began more than 1,500 years ago and were originally used by royal families, nobles, and government officials. These surnames were symbols of status and honor, and they helped identify important family lineages. Over time, especially during the Goryeo and Joseon Dynasties, more people began to adopt surnames to be officially recorded by the government. Many chose surnames like Kim, Lee, or Park, which were already seen as powerful and respected. As surnames became more common, people without one often selected these well-known names to improve their social standing.
Korean surnames are also tied to family clans, known as bon-gwan. A bon-gwan shows the family’s geographical origin, not just the name itself. For example, two people named Kim might come from different bon-gwan, like the Gimhae Kim clan or the Gyeongju Kim clan. This means that even if they share the same surname, they may not be closely related. Today, Korean surnames are not only about family but also about national identity. Many people feel proud of their surname and its history. Surnames help Koreans feel connected to their ancestors, clans, and cultural roots. Although many share the same name, what sets them apart is their unique family line, bon-gwan, and personal identity. The story of Kim, Lee, and Park is more than just a list of names—it is a reflection of Korea’s past, its respect for family ties, and the way identity has been shaped over centuries.
Reference link:
https://www.britannica.com/story/why-are-so-many-koreans-named-kim
- Reported by Manisha
Intern at The Korean Academy
Korean News Analysis and Reporting
