How many “names” do you have? 이름의 세계 🇰🇷✨
In Korean, 이름 (name) isn’t just one thing. There are many kinds of names, each with its own purpose and feeling. Most include the Hanja character 명(名), meaning “name” or “fame.”
🟢 본명 – your legal real name. Used officially.
→ 제 본명은 김지수예요.
🟢 별명 – a nickname, often humorous or teasing.
Friends might call you this based on habits, looks, or personality.
→ 저는 목이 길어서 친구들이 저를 '기린'이라고 불러요
🟢 애칭 – a pet name, used with love or affection.
Common between lovers or family.
→ 우리 할머니는 저한테 항상 '똥강아지'라고 하세요.
🟢 태명 – a baby’s prenatal name, used before birth.
Often tied to a 태몽 (a dream predicting the baby).
→ 제 동생 태명은 ‘심바’예요. 엄마가 태몽으로 사자 꿈을 꿨대요!
🟢 필명 – a writer’s pen name.
Used to hide their real name or create an artistic identity.
→ 이 작가는 ‘은하수’라는 필명으로 활동해요.
🟢 예명 – a stage name, used by celebrities.
It’s often catchier or easier to remember than their real name.
→ 'BTS 뷔'의 이름은 본명이 아니고 예명이에요.
Each “name” tells a story.
So… do you have a 별명 in Korean yet? 😊
