Jong-su is a Korean masculine given name. It is formed from Sino-Korean hanja characters, most commonly 宗 (jong, meaning "lineage, ancestry") and 秀 (su, meaning "luxuriant, beautiful, elegant, outstanding"). However, various other hanja combinations with the same sounds can be used.
Notable Bearers
Several prominent figures named Jong-su include North Korean weightlifter Kim Jong-su (born 1974), known for winning Olympic bronze medals, and South Korean politician Jong-su Lee (born 1974), a former professional Go player turned political activist. The name also appears in cultural contexts, such as historical records of Korean officials and revolutionaries active during the late Joseon dynasty.
Cultural Significance
As with many Korean names, the meaning of Jong-su is derived from the semantic connotations of its hanja elements. The character 宗 often conveys continuous lineage and honorable ancestry, while 秀 denotes excellence and refinement. In naming traditions, parents may choose this name to wish for the child to uphold family virtues and achieve outstanding qualities. The name is predominantly male, with no common feminine variants. Simpler versions like Jeong-su share the same second element and are often spelled similarly.
- Meaning: "lineage, ancestry" + "luxuriant, beautiful, exquisite"
- Origin: Korean (Sino-Korean)
- Type: First name (male)
- Usage regions: Korea (both North and South)