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Last Updated on 30 May 2024 by Vanessa

Are you in search of the perfect Korean name for your new feline friend?

Korean culture has gained immense popularity in recent years due to several interconnected factors such as K-pop music, Korean cinema, Korean television dramas, cosmetics, and local flavors like kimchi and Korean BBQ. The Korean Wave (Hallyu) has been fueled by effective marketing, globalization, and social media, making Korean culture more accessible and appealing to a global audience.

Because of this, more and more people are deciding to give their new cat a Korean name. Are you one of them? If so, I’ve compiled a list of the cutest Korean cat names – with meaning – for both male and female cats.

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100+ Korean cat names with meaning for male and female cats

Korean names for male cats

Common male names in Korea often have meanings rooted in nature, virtues, or cultural significance. Here are some traditional and popular Korean male names:

Hoon-jai (훈재): Hoon-jai means “virtuous son.”
Hyun-woo (현우): Hyun-woo means “wise” or “clever.”
Jae-hoon (재훈): Jae-hoon means “respectful” or “honorable.”
Ji-hoon (지훈): Ji-hoon means “smart” or “intelligent.”
Joon-ho (준호): Joon-ho means “talented” or “gifted.”
Ki-tae (기태): Ki-tae means “strong and great.”
Min-joon (민준): Min-joon means “handsome and talented.”
Sang-hoon (상훈): Sang-hoon means “noble” or “virtuous.”
Sang-hyun (상현): Sang-hyun means “mutual” or “cooperative.”
Seung-ho (승호): Seung-ho means “victorious” or “successful.”
Soo-min (수민): Soo-min means “gentle” or “calm.”
Tae-woo (태우): Tae-woo means “greatness” or “big achievement.”
Woo-jin (우진): Woo-jin means “truth” or “genuine.”
Yoon-seok (윤석): Yoon-seok means “abundant” or “prosperous.”
Young-gi (영기): Young-gi means “brave” or “courageous.”

Korean names for female cats

Common female names in Korea often have elegant and meaningful origins. Here are some traditional and popular Korean female names:

Eun-bi (은비): Eun-bi means “kindness” and “beauty.”
Eun-ji (은지): Eun-ji means “kindness” and “wisdom.”
Ga-young (가영): Ga-young is a popular name and means “beautiful” or “elegant.”
Haeun (하은): Haeun means “grace” and “felicity.”
Hee-jin (희진): Hee-jin means “joy” and “precious.”
Hye-jin (혜진): Hye-jin means “bright” and “virtuous.”
Ji-eun (지은): Ji-eun means “wisdom” and “grace.”
Ji-hye (지혜): Ji-hye means “wisdom” and “grace.”
Ji-yoon (지윤): Ji-yoon means “wisdom” and “soft.”
Min-joo (민주): Min-joo means “gentle” and “helpful.”
Min-seo (민서): Min-seo means “gentle” and “excellent.”
Seo-hyun (서현): Seo-hyun means “auspicious” and “virtuous.”
Seo-yeon (서연): Seo-yeon means “felicitous omen” or “graceful.”
Soo-mi (수미): Soo-mi means “pure beauty.”
Yeon-woo (연우): Yeon-woo means “lotus” and “elegance.”

Korean cat names based on food and drinks

Korean cuisine is known for its bold flavors, diverse dishes, and unique culinary traditions. Here is a list of some popular Korean foods and drinks that would make for cute cat names:

Bossam (보쌈): Boiled pork belly slices served with kimchi, radish wraps, and various condiments for wrapping and dipping.
Bulgogi (불고기): Thinly sliced marinated beef or pork, often grilled, and served with vegetables. It’s known for its sweet and savory flavor.
Bibimbap (비빔밥): A mixed rice dish with various vegetables, meat (usually beef), and a spicy gochujang sauce. It’s often topped with a fried egg.
Gimbap (김밥): Similar to sushi rolls but with Korean ingredients. It includes rice, vegetables, and sometimes meat or seafood rolled in sheets of seaweed.
Hoddeok (호떡): Sweet pancakes filled with brown sugar, honey, chopped peanuts, and cinnamon.
Japchae (잡채): Stir-fried glass noodles made from sweet potato starch, typically mixed with vegetables and meat.
Jeon (전): Assorted savory pancakes made with ingredients like vegetables, seafood, or kimchi.
Kimchi (김치): A staple in Korean cuisine, kimchi is fermented cabbage (often Napa cabbage) mixed with spices, such as chili pepper, garlic, and ginger.
Makgeolli (막걸리): A milky, sweet rice wine with a slightly fizzy texture. It’s a traditional Korean drink.
Mandu (만두): Korean dumplings, often filled with minced meat, vegetables, and seasonings, and either steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried.
Ssambap (쌈밥): A dish where ingredients like grilled meat, garlic, and chili paste are wrapped in lettuce or perilla leaves.
Samgyeopsal (삼겹살): Thick slices of pork belly, grilled at the table, and usually wrapped in lettuce leaves with various condiments.
Sikhye (식혜): A sweet rice drink made by fermenting cooked rice with malt and sugar, often served as a dessert.
Soju (소주): A popular Korean distilled spirit made from rice, barley, or sweet potatoes. It’s often enjoyed as a traditional alcoholic beverage.
Tteokbokki (떡볶이): Spicy stir-fried rice cakes served in a thick red pepper sauce, often with fish cakes and vegetables.
Yuja-cha (유자차): A hot, sweet tea made from yuja (citron) fruit.

Popular cat names based on K-Pop stars

K-pop began gaining traction in the US and worldwide in the early 2010s. The popularity of BTS and the South Korean government’s promotion of Hallyu definitely played a pivotal role in K-pop’s worldwide success.

aeyang: Named after Taeyang, a member of the famous boy band BIGBANG known for his solo hits like “Eyes, Nose, Lips.”
Baekhyun: Named after Baekhyun from EXO, admired for his vocal range and solo music career.
Chen: Named after Chen from EXO, renowned for his exceptional vocals in songs like “Beautiful Goodbye.”
Irene: Inspired by Irene, a member of Red Velvet, recognized for her beauty and talent as a lead vocalist.
JB: Named after JB from GOT7, recognized for his leadership and musical talent.
Jennie: Inspired by Jennie Kim, a member of BLACKPINK, known for her powerful rap and singing.
J-Hope: Named after J-Hope from BTS, known for his rap skills and positive energy
Jinwoo: Named after Kim Jin-woo, a member of WINNER, known for his vocal skills and charming personality.
Kai: Named after Kai from EXO, renowned for his captivating dance moves and stage presence.
Lisa: Inspired by Lalisa Manoban (Lisa) from BLACKPINK, known for her dance skills and charisma.
Luna: Inspired by Luna, a member of the girl group f(x), known for her vocal prowess and stage presence.
Moonbyul: Inspired by Moonbyul from MAMAMOO, celebrated for her unique rap style and talent.
RM: Named after RM, the charismatic leader of BTS (Bangtan Boys) known for his rap skills and leadership.
Solar: Inspired by Solar from MAMAMOO, known for her powerful vocals and stage presence.
Wendy: Inspired by Wendy from Red Velvet, celebrated for her sweet vocals and cheerful personality.

Cat names based on Korean TV dramas

Korean TV dramas, or K-dramas, have become immensely popular in the US and numerous other countries. Their global appeal stems from compelling storytelling, relatable characters, and diverse genres that cater to a wide audience. Streaming platforms like Netflix and Viki have made K-dramas easily accessible, allowing viewers to explore a rich variety of Korean dramas with subtitles. Additionally, the global success of K-pop and other aspects of Korean culture has further piqued interest in Korean entertainment, leading to a dedicated and growing international fanbase for K-dramas.

Captain Ri: Inspired by Captain Ri Jeong-hyeok from Crash Landing on You, a North Korean soldier and the romantic interest of Yoon Se-ri.
Cha Dal-geon: Inspired by the character played by Lee Seung-gi in Vagabond, a stuntman who becomes embroiled in a conspiracy.
Do Min-joon: Named after the lead character, an alien with supernatural abilities, in My Love from the Star.
Dokkaebi: Another name from Goblin, dokkaebi refers to the mythical creature at the center of the drama.
Gi-hun: Named after the main character from the TV show Squid Game. He is one of the many characters to participate in the deadly games.
Goblin: Inspired by the hit drama Goblin, also known as Guardian: The Lonely and Great God. This fantasy series tells the story of a goblin and his quest for immortality.
Heo Joon-jae: Inspired by the lead character in The Legend of the Blue Sea, portrayed by Lee Min-ho, a modern-day con artist who encounters a mermaid from the Joseon era.
Il-beon: In the TV show Squid Game, the character “Number 1” is referred to as “일번” (Il-beon) in Korean. “일” (Il) means “one,” and “번” (beon) means “number,” so “일번” directly translates to “Number 1” in English.
Jin-tae: Named after one of the main characters in the Korean TV show Hellbound, Pastor Jin-tae, who plays a pivotal role in the series.
Jun Ji-hyun: Named after the actress Jun Ji-hyun, who played the mermaid in The Legend of the Blue Sea.
Song Joong-ki: Inspired by the actor Song Joong-ki, who played Captain Yoo Shi-jin in Descendants of the Sun.
Yoon Se-ri: Named after the lead character in Crash Landing on You, a drama about a South Korean heiress who crash-lands in North Korea and falls in love.

Cat names based on Korean movies

Here are some cute cat names inspired by various Korean movies.

Bong Joon-ho: Named after the acclaimed Korean director Bong Joon-ho, known for movies like Parasite and Snowpiercer.
Byung-gu: From the cult classic Korean horror film Save the Green Planet!
Gonjiam: Named after Gonjiam: Haunted Asylum, a popular Korean horror film known for its eerie atmosphere.
Gumiho: Named after the mythical nine-tailed fox, a creature featured in various Korean films and folklore.
Jangsan Tiger: From the movie The Mimic, referencing the mythical creature featured in the film.
Jong-goo: From the critically acclaimed horror film The Wailing, named after the film’s protagonist.
Mulan: From The Silenced, named after the lead character in this mysterious thriller.
Okja: Named after the endearing super pig from Bong Joon-ho’s Okja.
Oldeuboi: The Korean name for the movie Oldboy directed by Park Chan-wook.
Seo-bok: Inspired by the titular character in the science fiction film Seobok.
Woo-jin: Inspired by the character Woo-jin from the classic Korean movie Oldboy.
Yeon-hee: Inspired by the character Yeon-hee from Train to Busan, a brave and resourceful young girl.

Korean cat names based on cities and villages

Naming cats after cities and villages in Korea can be a good idea because it adds a unique and cultural touch to your pet’s identity. Also, Korean place names often have pleasant and melodious sounds, making them fitting choices for endearing pet names.

Andong (안동): A historic city in the southeast known for its preservation of traditional Korean culture, particularly the Hahoe Folk Village, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Busan (부산): South Korea’s second-largest city, situated on the southeastern coast. Busan is famous for its beautiful beaches, bustling fish markets, and the annual Busan International Film Festival.
Daegu (대구): Located in the southeastern part of South Korea, Daegu is known for its textile industry and as a center of traditional Korean culture. It hosts festivals like the Daegu Yangnyeongsi Herbal Medicine Festival.
Gangneung (강릉): Situated on the eastern coast, Gangneung is famous for its beaches, coffee culture, and as a host city for the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Gwangju (광주): Located in the southwest, Gwangju is known for its historical significance in Korean democracy. It’s also a cultural hub with museums, theaters, and art galleries.
Gyeongju (경주): Often called the “museum without walls,” Gyeongju is in the southeast and is known for its rich history, ancient temples, and burial mounds from the Silla Kingdom.
Incheon (인천): Located west of Seoul, Incheon is known for its international airport and seaport. It also offers cultural attractions like Chinatown and Wolmido Island.
Jeju (제주도): Located off the southern coast, Jeju Island is a popular destination known for its volcanic landscapes, beautiful beaches, and unique culture. It’s often referred to as “Korea’s Hawaii.”
Mungyeong (문경): A small town in North Gyeongsang Province, known for its natural beauty, hiking trails, and traditional Korean pottery.
Seoul (서울): The capital and largest city of South Korea, located in the northwest part of the country. Seoul is a bustling metropolis known for its modern architecture, historic palaces, vibrant street markets, and vibrant nightlife.
Suwon (수원): Located just south of Seoul, Suwon is famous for Hwaseong Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which surrounds the city center.

Korean cat names based on colors

Here’s a list of cat names inspired by colors in Korean:

Bora (보라): Purple signifies nobility and wealth. Historically, it was reserved for royalty. Today, it can be seen in various aspects of Korean culture.
Bunhong (분홍): Pink is a color of love, tenderness, and femininity. It’s often used in clothing and decorations for young children and infants.
Chorok (초록): Green represents growth, hope, and vitality.
Eunsaek (은색): Silver is associated with purity and clarity. It is sometimes used in traditional Korean jewelry and accessories.
Geomjeong (검정): Black symbolizes solemnity, reverence, and dignity. It is worn during funerals and is also used in traditional clothing.
Geumsaek (금색): Gold represents wealth, prosperity, and success. It is often used in traditional Korean art and clothing, symbolizing affluence.
Hayang (하양): White symbolizes purity, cleanliness, and integrity. It is often used in traditional Korean clothing (hanbok) and is worn during important life events like weddings and funerals.
Norang (노랑): Yellow is associated with warmth, positivity, and happiness. It’s often used in celebrations and festivals.
Parang (파랑): Blue represents peace, calmness, and stability. It is often seen in traditional Korean pottery, including blue and white porcelain.
Ppalgang (빨강): Red is associated with energy, passion, and courage. It is commonly used in traditional Korean decorations, wedding attire, and celebrations.

Most common Korean cat names

Here are some names that are frequently used and loved by cat owners in Korea:

Ba-ni: Similar to “bunny,” this name is chosen for its cute and fluffy association.
Bi-bi: A simple and affectionate name that is easy to pronounce.
Bi-song: Bi-song is a playful and whimsical name that doesn’t have a direct translation but sounds delightful.
Bi-teu: Inspired by the English word “beat,” this name has a modern and energetic feel.
Bok-shil: Bokshil is a charming name that can convey a sense of happiness and contentment.
Chi-jeu: This playful name means “cheese” and is chosen for its cute and catchy sound.
Dal-kong: Dal-kong means “peanut” in Korean and is a sweet and endearing name for a small cat.
Dal-yeo: Meaning “run” in Korean, this name can be fitting for an active and agile cat.
Ho-du: Meaning “walnut” in Korean, this name is often chosen for its cute and nutty connotation.
Ko-ko: A cute and friendly name that is easy to remember and say.
Ma-rong: A playful and endearing name that can be a great fit for a mischievous cat.
Mi-mi: This name has a gentle and melodic sound, making it a popular choice for cats.
Mi-ya: This name is often chosen for its simplicity and sweet sound.
Mu-ji: Muji is a cute and simple name that can suit cats of various personalities.
Nu-nu: This name has a gentle and affectionate sound, making it suitable for a sweet and cuddly cat.
Nyang-i: This is a playful and affectionate name for a cat, which is similar to calling a cat “kitty” in English.
Tokki: Meaning “rabbit” in Korean, this name is sometimes given to cats with bunny-like features or personalities.
Po-po: Po-po is a charming and cheerful name that can suit a lively cat.
So-ya: Soya is a graceful and elegant name for a female cat.
U-jju-jju: A fun and unique name that doesn’t have a direct translation but has a whimsical sound.

Names based on famous Korean cats

Naming your new feline friend after a famous Korean cat is a delightful idea because it pays homage to beloved feline celebrities while adding a touch of Korean culture to your pet’s identity. These names often come with endearing stories and unique characteristics, making them meaningful choices.

Baek-gu: Sunny (2011) is a heartwarming film that features a cat named Baek-gu, who plays a part in bringing old friends back together.
Bang Wool: In the popular Korean drama series Because This is My First Life (2017), Bang Wool is a charming cat who lives with one of the main characters, contributing to the storyline and providing moments of comfort.
Banye: Banye is a Korean cat that gained fame for his unique, round appearance. He’s often referred to as the “Round-faced Cat” and has become an internet sensation.
Bobo: Bobo is a famous Korean cat known for his striking blue eyes and playful nature. He has a strong presence on social media, especially Instagram.
Ddadda: Ddadda is known for being the first cat to complete a 5km marathon in South Korea, earning the nickname “Marathon Cat.”
Dodo: Dodo is a famous Korean cat known for his dainty and graceful appearance. She is often seen in elegant poses on Instagram.
Gukbap: Gukbap is a fluffy Korean cat known for his heartwarming and cuddly presence on Instagram, where he often interacts with his human companion.
Gurem: Gurem is a Korean rescue cat who became famous for his unique, striking two-tone face, which resembles a work of art.
Kkoma: The Cat (2011) is a Korean horror film where a mysterious cat named Kkoma becomes the central character, and the plot revolves around the cat’s involvement in a series of murders.
Nala: Nala is a beloved Instagram-famous Scottish Fold cat known for her adorable poses and expressive eyes. She has a massive following and is often seen in various cute outfits.
Ori: In the fantasy drama series Black (2017), Ori is a mysterious cat who plays a role in the supernatural occurrences and mysteries explored in the show.
Sa-rang from: In the romantic comedy My Love, My Bride (2014), Sa-rang is a beloved pet cat who plays a significant role in the lives of the main characters, helping to bring them closer together as a couple.
Simba: Simba is a charming ginger cat from South Korea who has captivated fans with his adorable antics and curious personality on Instagram.

Conclusion: Naming your cat

Whether you’ve adopted a stray cat from Korea or simply appreciate Korean culture, I trust that this collection of Korean cat names with meaning has sparked inspiration.

Would did you name your cat? Let me know in the comments below.