Han (Korean name)

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Han is the common English spelling of 한, a common Korean family name. According to the 2000 census, 한 (韓) is the twelfth most common surname in the Republic of Korea. In Sino-Korean, it literally means "country" or "leader." Han is considered the oldest surname in Korea, according to genealogy records.

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[edit] Clans

As with all Korean family names, the holders of the Han surname are divided into different patrilineal clans, or lineages, known in Korean as bon-gwan, based on their ancestral seat. Most such clans trace their lineage back to a specific founder. This system was at its height under the yangban aristocracy of the Joseon Dynasty, but it remains in use today. There are approximately 241 such clans claimed by South Koreans.

[edit] Cheongju clan

Cheongju clan, based on genealogical records, is considered the oldest clan in Korea. According to Cheongju Han clan genealogical record(청주한씨세보), the founder is Hanlan(한란), who is the descendant of Gijun of Gojoseon. The Cheongju clan became successful during late Goryeo era, with a lot of scholar officials coming from this clan. This clan has about thirty sects, with six prominent sects comprising much of the clan's population.

[edit] List

Famous Koreans with this family name:

[edit] See also