Unlike most parts of the world where the English Language is widely accepted, whether for its versatility or as an official language, Korea is different.

Although they are known for cultural incorporation and the act of redefining known culture, there is still a strong presence of peculiarity that distinguishes them from the rest of the world (boldly). And because of this, the official language of Korea is ‘Korean’, specially invented by the great ‘King Sejong.’ However, Korea has been tilting towards the English language recently because of external influence and even international relationships.

Since students are taught English in elementary school and sometimes up until high school, Majority of the natives now have a vague idea of the English Language with some of them having English names as well. Although the adoption of English names is still uncommon, there are notable celebrities with English names adopted or owned through different circumstances.

Let’s talk about those celebrities and the circumstances surrounding their English names.

Park Min Young- Racheal

For Actress Park Min Young, the name ‘Racheal’ originated from her stay as an exchange student in an American high School. She used the name during her time in the United States, and I guess a name is a name after all, since some fans prefer to call her by her English name. More on the brighter side, she is a global actress!

Cha Eun Woo- Felix

Although Cha Eun Woo’s real name is Lee Dong Min, he is also playfully called ‘Felix,’ an English name he revealed on an Episode of Masters in the House, which was given to him by his English Teacher in Anyang. It might not be official, but if Eun Woo agrees to it himself, who are we to say no to?

Hwang In Yeoup - Ryan Leon

The non-aging Hwang In Youp also goes by the name Ryan Leon. During his high school and college days, Hwang In Yeoup lived in the Philippines automatically earning him the English cute name ‘Ryan Leon’ before entering the Korean entertainment industry in 2017.

Ahn Yeo Seop - Paul

Before we go into the details of his name, Ahn Yeo Seop is a Canadian actor. Although he was born in Korea and lived there till he was 7, he moved to Canada with his family for 10 years before he moved to Korea at 17. Now you know why he goes by the name ‘Paul’

Jung Soo Jung - Chrystal/ Krystal

Just Soo Jung has dual citizenship in Korea and California, as she was born in the latter country before migrating to the former as an idol trainee. However, her stage name ‘Krystal’ is not a made-up stage name, but her English name used in California

Choi Woo Sik - Edward

Choi Woo Sik is also a Canadian actor with a similar story as Ahn Yeo Seop, although he migrated to Canada with his family when he was 10 and only returned to Korea after 10 years before becoming an actor. He uses the name Edward (also called Eddie) as his English name.  

While English names are not yet a widespread trend in Korea, these Korean stars show how global experiences, education, and international careers can shape personal identity in fun and unique ways. One cute English name at a time!