It’s time for the third part of our series on Korean language and culture through the names of SEVENTEEN’s members. In this content, we’re looking at the special meanings and stories behind the names of the performance unit members. We’ll dive into what each name represents in Korean and the symbolism it holds in Korean culture. 

Names go beyond just labels—they’re key to each person’s identity and background. The stories hidden in these members’ names are sure to be interesting.

Today, we’re checking out the names of SEVENTEEN’s perfomance unit. 

Let's get started!

권순영 / Kwon Soon-young 

Bringing light to the world with purity

Did you know that Hoshi's real name is Soon-young? It’s a name with a unique vibe—a bit old-fashioned, almost like a name you might hear from the '70s or '80s. It even sounds a little feminine and doesn’t have that modern ring to it at first. Because of this, many people might not think twice about what it means, but there's actually a lot of value in this name. 

The 순 (Soon) in Soon-young means 'pure, clean, or simple', and the 영 (Young) means 'everlasting'. In other words, it suggests someone who holds onto purity forever. The person who chose this name for him likely hoped he would stay untainted by the world, keeping his genuine nature intact. It’s a name filled with the wish for someone to live with pure intentions. 

Through Hoshi’s name, we can sense not only the era it reflects but also the deep meaning and wishes it carries. 

Quick Tip! If you see 순 (Soon) in a name, it often signifies qualities like purity or smoothness. 

이찬 / Lee chan 

Shine bright and beautiful

In Korea, names are usually made up of a surname and a two-syllable first name. But some people have a single-syllable first name, known as 외자[oe-ja], which has a strong impact and is easier to remember. Dino’s real name is an [oe-ja] name—his first name is simply 찬 (Chan). 

🖐 The text in [ ] indicates the pronunciation in Korean. 

The name 찬 (Chan) generally means to shine brightly or radiantly. Dino’s name carries the hope that he will be someone who shines beautifully and brings light to the world. The person who named him probably wanted him to be a source of positive energy and a bright presence, just like light itself. 

And in reality, Dino truly is the group’s shining youngest member. Wherever he goes, he brightens up the mood and brings positive energy to the members of SEVENTEEN. Doesn’t his name suit him perfectly? 

문준휘 / Moon Jun-hwi 

A brilliant and wise presence 

As a Chinese member, Jun's Chinese name is 文俊輝, which naturally translates to his Korean name 문준휘 (Moon Jun-hwi). Even for Koreans, this name feels completely natural and gives off a strong, charismatic vibe—almost like a name that conveys strength and decisiveness. 

In Korean names, 준 (Jun) often means 'outstanding talent, wisdom, and distinction'. Jun’s 준 (Jun) carries this meaning, suggesting intelligence and a proactive spirit. The 휘 (Hwi) in his name means 'to shine, to be radiant, to soar', with bright and dazzling connotations. Altogether, his name means 'a person whose talents shine brilliantly'. 

Taken together, these two syllables give the impression of 'a person of exceptional talent and wisdom who shines wherever he goes.' True to his name, Jun stands out not only in SEVENTEEN but also among many other celebrities, with a presence that’s truly unique. If you agree, put your hands up.

서명호 / Seo Myeong-ho 

A bright and generous light 

The names of SEVENTEEN’s Chinese members are fascinating. When Chinese names are converted into Korean, they often sound unfamiliar, but both Jun and The8’s names sound perfectly natural in Korean—as if they were native Korean names. 

In particular, The8’s name, 명호 (Myeong-ho), is a name commonly used among Korean men. 

The character 명 (Myeong) has two main meanings: one is 'bright and radiant', and the other is 'intelligent and strategic'. In The8’s case, his name reflects the first meaning, symbolizing someone who shines brightly. The character 호 (Ho) can have various meanings, but for The8, it conveys 'wide and abundant'. 

Combined, these characters give the impression of 'a person with a bright and generous spirit who lights up the world'. It’s as if his name expresses the wish that he will keep shining, even in darkness, and brighten the lives of those around him with his warm and expansive heart. Whoever named him must have been a kind and thoughtful person, don’t you think? 😜

With Rosé’s hit 'APT' going global, interest in her Korean name has soared. Understanding a name’s meaning can feel like forming a closer connection. We hope this content brings you a bit closer to SEVENTEEN’s members and deepens your appreciation for Korean language and culture.