Didn't know the Korean names of SEVENTEEN or their hidden meanings? You've come to the right place. 

Korean names are like secret maps, each with a unique meaning. Are you ready to discover what SEVENTEEN's names reveal? Let's dive in and get to know their names—and SEVENTEEN—on a whole new level!

🖐 Important Korean Name Culture 🖐 

Every Korean name is unique and has its own special story. Even if names look and sound the same, they can have completely different meanings.

Today, we’re checking out the names of SEVENTEEN’s hip-hop unit. 

Let's get started!

MINGYU / 김민규 / Kim Min-gyu 

A star-like jade that shines with wisdom and humility

Min-gyu’s name is pretty popular among Korean boys, ranking high on the list, so you’ll hear it often. But the meaning behind each part of his name, Min (민) and Gyu (규), can vary widely, which makes it unique. Even if others have the same name, the combination of meanings gives each Min-gyu a special twist. 

Min (민) stands for 'jade stone', a rare and precious gem with a long-standing royal connection in Korea—it was often used in a king’s clothing and jewelry. This character in a name symbolizes someone with quiet yet powerful potential, shining through wisdom and skill, much like jade’s subtle and noble beauty. 

Gyu (규) often means 'star', but it also has another meaning: talent and wisdom. 

Many fans see Min-gyu as a 'jade stone shining like a star', but there’s more depth to his name. It can mean 'someone who shines with noble wisdom and talent, while embodying humility'. This interpretation adds another layer to the name, highlighting a balance of brilliance and modesty.

WONWOO / 전원우 / Jeon Won-woo 

A heart that harmonizes with the world and cares for others

Won-woo (원우)’s name has a soft, rounded sound that brings a sense of warmth and calm, which makes it feel timeless. His name, loved for decades, only gets more beautiful when you uncover its deeper meaning. 

In Korean names, Won (원) often represents 'greatness' or 'excellence'. In the case of SEVENTEEN Won-woo, however, Won (원) symbolizes roundness and harmony. The Woo (우) in his name carries a meaning of helping and caring for others, embodying generosity. 

So, not only does Won-woo’s name have a rounded, harmonious sound, but the meaning also reflects kindness and a balanced nature. It's almost as if his parents chose this name to reflect warmth and a focus on harmony and kindness rather than personal gain.  

In today’s world, where many focus on self-interest, Won-woo reminds us of the importance of caring for others.

S.COUPS / 최승철 / Choi Seung-cheol 

A strong and wise leader guided by justice and wisdom

The name Seung-cheol (승철) gives off a powerful, masculine vibe that may feel a bit different from his balanced, approachable personality. This name has been a popular choice for boys in Korea for many years, rooted in a sense of tradition. 

For SEVENTEEN’s Seung-cheol, the Seung (승) part of his name means 'to win' or 'to excel', while Cheol (철) means 'wisdom' or 'intelligence'. Just hearing his name makes you think, “This person seems like a natural leader!” And indeed, Seung-cheol is the leader of SEVENTEEN. 

The meaning of his name perfectly aligns with someone destined to lead with wisdom, understand the world, and guide others with integrity and fairness. It’s one of those cases where his name truly reflects who he is—a respected leader, admired by his team, living up to the strength and depth his name embodies!

VERNON / 최한솔 / Choi Han-sol 

A thunderous clap of lightning

Han-sol (한솔) is a unisex name, used by both men and women, with about a 6:4 ratio favoring male use. Unlike Seung-cheol, which has a strong, masculine vibe, Han-sol has a more neutral feel that adds to Vernon’s unique charm. It’s a name that has become increasingly popular in recent years, especially in the 2020s. 

When Vernon was born, his father heard a loud thunderclap, which inspired him to choose a name reflecting that moment. 

He chose Han (한), which can mean 'great', 'loud', 'large', or 'big', and Sol (솔), inspired by 소리[so-ri], the Korean word for 'sound'. 

🖐 The letters within [ ] are the actual Korean pronunciation. 

With a bit of creativity, his father shortened 소리 to 솔, crafting a unique and stylish name that captures both the intensity of that day and Vernon’s individuality.

SEVENTEEN’s Hip-Hop Unit Members—Kim Min-gyu (김민규), Jeon Won-woo (전원우), Choi Seung-cheol (최승철), and Choi Han-sol (최한솔)—All have names filled with unique meanings and personal charm. These aren’t just names; they carry stories and character that reflect who they are as individuals. Let’s look forward to seeing SEVENTEEN continue to shine, living up to the beauty of their names. Stay tuned—next up is SEVENTEEN’s vocal unit! 

당신의 한국 이름은 무엇인가요?

What is your Korean name?