Myeong-suk is a Korean given name. The name is composed of two Sino-Korean myeong (from hanja 明), meaning "bright, light, clear," and suk (from hanja 淑), meaning "good, pure, virtuous, charming." While these hanja are common choices, other hanja combinations are possible.Etymology and MeaningAs is typical with Korean names formed from two syllables, each with multiple hanja possibilities, the meaning of Myeong-suk can vary depending on the specific characters chosen by the parents. However, the most prevalent spelling uses the characters for "bright" and "virtuous," reflecting traditional Korean values of intelligence and moral rectitude in female names.Popularity and UsageAccording to Wikipedia, Myung-sook (a common romanization variant) was the fifth-most popular name for newborn girls in South Korea in 1950. The name's popularity in the mid-20th century can be partially attributed to its classic and uplifting meaning. Variant spellings include Myeong-sook, Myong-suk (the McCune-Reischauer romanization used in North Korea), and Myung-sook.Notable BearersSeveral notable individuals bear this name or its variant spellings. In South Korea, Han Myeong-sook (born 1944) made history as the first female Prime Minister of South Korea, serving under President Roh Moo-hyun. In North Korea, the name appears in athletics: Kim Myong-suk (born 1947) is a former male volleyball player, and Paek Myong-suk (born 1954) is a female volleyball player. Younger athletes include wrestler Jong Myong-suk (born 1993). Feminist activist Kimshin Myongsuk (born 1961) also carries this name. Fictional characters named Myung-sook appear in the South Korean television series Precious Family (2004–2005).Cultural SignificanceThe name Myeong-suk reflects the traditional Korean practice of forming given names from Chinese characters (hanja), often imparting wishes for the child’s character or future prosperity. The first element, myeong, suggests enlightenment and brightness, while suk connotes virtuous and refined femininity, a common trait encouraged in post-war Korean society when the name was most popular.Meaning: Bright, virtuousOrigin: Korean, from Sino-Korean hanja 明 (bright) + 淑 (virtuous)Type: Female given nameUsage regions: South Korea, North KoreaVariants: Myung-sook, Myong-suk