Introduction
South Korea is a fascinating country that has gained popularity globally for its advanced technology, pop culture, and delicious cuisine. However, have you ever wondered what Korean people call their country? In this article, we will explore the various names used to refer to South Korea.
The Official Name: Republic of Korea (ROK)
The official name of South Korea is the Republic of Korea (ROK), which was established in 1948 following World War II. The ROK is a democratic country that has a president as its head of state. The name “Republic of Korea” reflects the country’s democratic system.
The Informal Name: Hanguk
Hanguk is the informal name used by Koreans to refer to South Korea. The word “Hanguk” means “Korean nation” in Korean. This name is widely used in everyday conversations and is often used interchangeably with the official name.
The Historical Name: Joseon
Joseon is a historical name that was used to refer to the Korean peninsula during the Joseon Dynasty, which ruled from 1392 to 1910. The name Joseon means “land of morning calm” and was used to describe the peaceful and harmonious nature of the country during that time.
The North Korean Name: Nam Joseon
North Korea refers to South Korea as Nam Joseon, which means “South Joseon” in Korean. This name reflects North Korea’s claim that it is the legitimate successor to the Joseon Dynasty and that South Korea is a part of its territory.
The Chinese Name: Chaoxian
In Chinese, South Korea is referred to as Chaoxian, which means “morning freshness.” This name is derived from the Chinese pronunciation of Joseon and was commonly used during the Joseon Dynasty.
The Japanese Name: Kankoku
Kankoku is the Japanese name for South Korea. This name is derived from the Chinese pronunciation of Joseon and was used during Japan’s colonization of Korea from 1910 to 1945.
The English Name: South Korea
South Korea is the English name used to refer to the country. This name is widely recognized globally and is often used in official documents and international organizations.
The Nickname: Land of the Morning Calm
South Korea is often referred to as the “Land of the Morning Calm” due to its serene and peaceful nature. This nickname reflects the country’s cultural emphasis on harmony and balance.
The Sports Name: Taeguk Warriors
The South Korean national football team is commonly referred to as the “Taeguk Warriors.” The name “Taeguk” refers to the yin-yang symbol on the country’s flag and reflects the team’s spirit of balance and harmony.
The Industrial Name: Miracle on the Han River
South Korea’s rapid economic growth in the 1960s and 1970s earned it the nickname “Miracle on the Han River.” This name reflects the country’s success in transforming itself from a war-torn nation into an economic powerhouse.
Conclusion
In conclusion, South Korea has various names that reflect its rich history, culture, and achievements. From its official name of Republic of Korea (ROK) to its nickname “Land of the Morning Calm,” each name provides a unique perspective into this fascinating country. Understanding these names can help us better appreciate and understand South Korea and its people.
What do Koreans call South Korea?
In modern times, South Koreans use the term Hanguk to refer to either South Korea or the entire country of Korea. They also use Namhan to refer specifically to South Korea and Bukhan to refer to North Korea. Informally, North Korea is referred to as Ibuk or “The North.”
What does South Korea call themselves?
South Koreans use the terms Hanguk-in or Hanguk-saram to refer to themselves, which both translate to “people of (Sam)han.” When talking about Koreans living outside of Korea, the term Han-in is often used. Korean Americans identify themselves as Hangukgye-Migukin.
What is South Korea’s other name?
South Korea is officially known as the Republic of Korea (ROK) because its government claims authority over the entire Korean peninsula and does not acknowledge North Korea as an independent nation.
What do Koreans call each other?
In Korean culture, it is common to address others by their given names rather than just their surnames. For instance, one might refer to their peers as ‘Sung-soo’ or ‘Soo-mi’ instead of ‘Mr/Ms. Kim’, ‘Mr/Ms. Lee’, or ‘Mr/Ms. Park’.
What is South Korean slang?
To begin learning Korean slang, here are some basic words: 대박 (daebak) means “amazing” or “awesome”, 헐 (heol) stands for “OMG” or “WTF”, 짱 (jjang) means “amazing”, “best” or “cool”, and 애교 (aegyo) means “cute”.
What do Koreans call their girl?
This is a list of frequently used affectionate terms in Korean that you can use to refer to your loved one. Some examples include “Jagiya” which means “honey” or “baby,” “Nae sarang” meaning “my love,” “Yeobo” which can be translated to “honey” or “darling,” and “Aein” which means “sweetheart.” This list can be useful for expressing your love in a more intimate and personal way.
The Cultural Name: Hallyu
Hallyu, also known as the Korean Wave, refers to the global popularity of South Korean culture, including music, dramas, and movies. The term was coined in the 1990s and has since expanded to include other aspects of Korean culture, such as fashion and food. Hallyu has played a significant role in promoting South Korea and its culture worldwide.
The Tourist Name: The Land of Kimchi
Kimchi is a staple food in South Korea, and the country is often referred to as “The Land of Kimchi.” This nickname reflects the importance of kimchi in Korean cuisine and its cultural significance. Many tourists visit South Korea to try different varieties of kimchi and learn about its history and preparation.
The Military Name: The ROK Armed Forces
The Republic of Korea Armed Forces, also known as the ROK Armed Forces, is the military organization responsible for defending South Korea. The ROK Armed Forces consist of army, navy, air force, and marine corps branches. The military plays a crucial role in maintaining national security and protecting the country against potential threats.
The Educational Name: The Land of Education
South Korea has a highly competitive education system that emphasizes academic achievement. As a result, the country has earned the nickname “The Land of Education.” South Korea has one of the highest literacy rates in the world, and education is highly valued by Korean society.
The Geographical Name: The Korean Peninsula
South Korea shares the Korean peninsula with North Korea. The peninsula is located in Northeast Asia and is surrounded by the Sea of Japan to the east and the Yellow Sea to the west. The Korean peninsula has a rich history and culture that spans thousands of years.
