Today, there are approximately 5,582 surnames in Korea, but the top 10 surnames account for over 60% of the total population. However, this surname distribution, which we take for granted, was not eternal. Throughout history, countless surnames emerged, flourished, and then silently disappeared. Like ancient artifacts, these lost surnames offer fascinating clues into the society and culture of their time.
Three Kingdoms Period: Appearance of Diverse Surnames
The Three Kingdoms period was when surnames began to be used, primarily centered around royalty and aristocracy. Representative surnames include Goguryeo's 'Eul (乙)', 'Hae (解)', Baekje's 'Sa (沙)', 'Yeon (燕)', and Silla's six tribal chiefs' surnames like 'Bae (裵)', 'Seol (薛)', 'Son (孫)'. Particularly noteworthy is the existence of compound surnames (two-character surnames).
- Eulji (乙支) clan: Famous for Goguryeo's renowned general Eulji Mundeok, but rarely found today.
- Sama (司馬) clan: Originally a surname derived from China, with records of its existence during the Baekje period.
- Heukchi (黑齒) clan: A surname famous for Heukchi Sangji, who led the Baekje restoration movement. There are theories that some crossed over to Japan and continued the surname.
These surnames gradually disappeared into history due to wars, national collapses, and changes in later surname policies.
Goryeo and Joseon: Reorganization and Disappearance of the Surname System
During the Goryeo period, with the introduction of the civil service examination system, surnames became more widespread, and King Wang Geon implemented a 'bestowal of surname (賜姓) policy' for meritorious subjects. In this process, new surnames emerged, but at the same time, existing indigenous surnames were absorbed or disappeared.
During the Joseon Dynasty, the surname system was managed even more strictly. In particular, the 'Sōshi-kaimei' (name changing policy) during the Japanese colonial period left a deep wound on our surname history, and it is suggested that some rare surnames disappeared in the process. Additionally, in modern times, there were cases where people changed to more common surnames for administrative convenience or personal reasons.
Traces of Surnames We Have Lost
Today, in the National Statistical Office's population census, rare surnames used by only dozens, or even just a few people, are found. Among these, there is a possibility that they are descendants of surnames that existed in the past.
- Gyeon (甄) clan: The surname of Gyeon Hwon, who founded Later Baekje, but now only a very small number remain.
- Bing (冰), Noe (雷), Eo (魚) clans: Unique surnames derived from natural elements, with various theories regarding their origins.
Tracing lost surnames is more than just finding forgotten names; it's an endeavor to restore the diversity of our history. Remembering the stories of countless small streams forgotten within the great flow of Kim, Lee, and Park will enrich our identity.