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Korean surname

Choi

Clan name of ancient Korean nobility

Clan or community name

Choi (최, also romanized as Choe) is a major Korean surname of uncertain exact meaning but associated with ancient noble lineages. It is linked with several clans, including those from the Silla and Goryeo periods. The name ranks among the top Korean surnames.

It remains common in Korea and among overseas Koreans. Different romanizations reflect the same Korean character 최.

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Frequently asked questions

What does the surname Choi mean?+

Clan name of ancient Korean nobility. One of the oldest recorded Korean surnames, associated with the aristocracy of the Silla kingdom.

Is Choi a common surname?+

Choi is a Korean-origin surname. Popularity varies widely by country and region, and the same surname can be common in one place and rare in another.

Can two families with the same surname be unrelated?+

Yes. Surnames, especially occupational and descriptive ones like this, were often adopted independently by many unrelated families who happened to share a trade, appearance, or location.

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No account or personal details are required to look up a surname's meaning - this page is static reference content.