How to Tell If a Korean Name Is Male or Female

The Korean language is, phonetically and linguistically, a mix between Japanese and Chinese. Seventy million people in the world, including many of Korean descent in the U.S. and other Western countries, speak Korean. Korean culture emphasizes family bonds, Confucian principles, etiquette, and mutual respect. Koreans use a two-name system; there are no middle names. Non-Korean speakers may have trouble recognizing by name alone whether an individual is male or female.

Learn to recognize common female first names, including Eun, Hee, and Kun.

Identify typical male first names, such as Jung Hoon, Jong, or Kwang.

Consult online name databases. There are many such name lists that classify Korean first names by gender. Match the name in question to one on the list.