The Real Names of Korean Artists That Are Often Very Different from What You Think

Kapanlagi.com - Many of us know Korean actors by their iconic and memorable stage names. However, it turns out that some of them have very different real names, which can even surprise you when you hear them. The reasons they change their names vary—from career factors, spirituality, to branding. So, curious about which Korean actors have unexpected real names? Let’s check out the list!

1. Gong Yoo

(Image: Instagram/@gongyoo_official)

The handsome actor who shot to fame through Train to Busan and Goblin actually has the real name Gong Ji-cheol. He combines his family name 'Gong' and his mother's name 'Yoo' to form the stage name Gong Yoo.

2. Ji Sung

(Image: Instagram/@justin_jisung)

The talented actor known for Kill Me, Heal Me actually has the real name Kwak Tae-geun. He chose the name Ji Sung when he debuted in the entertainment world to make it easier to remember and to give a professional impression.

3. Hyun Bin

(Image: Instagram/@hyunbinactor_)

The cool figure we know from Crash Landing on You actually has the real name Kim Tae-pyung. The stage name 'Hyun Bin' was chosen because it is considered stronger in character and easy to remember.

4. Park Seo Joon

(Image: Instagram/@bn_sj2013)

Before becoming widely known through Itaewon Class and What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim, he used his real name Park Yong-kyu. He changed his name to Park Seo Joon to sound more modern and masculine.

5. Ha Jung Woo

(Image: Instagram/@_hajungwoo)

Ha Jung Woo is known as a versatile actor who often stars in Korean box office films. But did you know that his real name is Kim Sung-hoon?

6. Lee Do Hyun

(Image: Instagram/@ldh_sky)

This rising young actor uses the stage name Lee Do Hyun, while his real name is Lim Dong-hyun. The name Lee Do Hyun was chosen to provide a fresh and memorable vibe.

7. Lomon

(image: instagram/@lomon991111)

Lomon caught attention through his role in All of Us Are Dead. His real name is Park Solomon, but he chose the name 'Lomon' as a shorter and more international version of his real name.

8. Choi Jin Hyuk

(Image: Instagram/@real_jinhyuk)

The charismatic figure in various dramas has the real name Kim Tae-ho. He started his career under his real name but changed it to Choi Jin Hyuk to be more easily recognized by the public.

9. Kim Woo Bin

(Image: Instagram/@__kimwoobin)

Kim Woo Bin began his career as a model before transitioning to acting. His real name is Kim Hyun-joong, which is also the name of a famous K-pop artist, so he chose the stage name Kim Woo Bin to avoid confusion.

10. Kang Ha Neul

(Image: Instagram/@_kanghaneul)

Kang Ha Neul's real name is Kim Ha Neul, which is almost identical to that of a senior Korean actress with the same name. To avoid confusion, he changed his surname to 'Kang' when entering the entertainment industry.

11. Yoo Ah In

(Image: Instagram/@hongsick)

The name Yoo Ah In does sound unique and interesting, but who would have thought his real name is Uhm Hong-sik? He chose a stage name that sounds artistic and has its own philosophy when he was still a teenager.

12. Ma Dong Seok

(Image: Instagram/@donlee)

Ma Dong Seok, who is famous for his iconic role in Train to Busan, actually has the real name Lee Dong-seok. He chose to use the stage name “Ma” which sounds more masculine and fits his muscular physique.

If you've always thought that the names of Korean artists are real, hopefully this list opens your mind! Names may be changed, but their talent and hard work remain the most important.

(kpl/lfz)