This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

A1 noun 11 min read

성함

seongham

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 성함 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 성함 in your Level:

At the A1 level, learners focus on the most basic social interactions. '성함' is introduced as a 'polite' version of '이름' (name). Students learn it primarily within the fixed phrase '성함이 어떻게 되세요?' (What is your name?). At this stage, the goal is to recognize that Korean has different levels of politeness and to use this specific word when talking to teachers, older people, or in service situations like at a restaurant or shop. The focus is on memorization of the set phrase and understanding that you should not use '성함' to refer to yourself. Learners are expected to understand the question when asked by a native speaker and respond correctly with '제 이름은 [Name]입니다.' The distinction between '뭐예요?' (What is it?) and '어떻게 되세요?' (How does it become?) is also introduced as a key part of polite Korean grammar.

At the A2 level, the use of '성함' expands to include third-party references. Learners start to use '성함' when talking about people they respect who are not present, such as a friend's parents or a boss. Grammatically, A2 students begin to understand the subject honorific particle '-시-' and how it pairs with '성함' in sentences like '선생님 성함이 어떻게 되시는지 알아요?' (Do you know what the teacher's name is?). They also learn to distinguish '성함' from '성명' (formal name) used in basic forms and IDs. The cultural context of why '성함' is used—to maintain social harmony and show respect—becomes clearer. Exercises at this level often involve choosing between '이름' and '성함' based on the relationship between the speaker and the subject.

At the B1 level, learners are expected to use '성함' naturally in a variety of formal and semi-formal contexts. They should be able to navigate professional settings, such as making a phone call to a company or visiting a government office, where '성함' is the standard. B1 students also learn more complex honorific structures, such as '성함을 여쭤봐도 될까요?' (May I ask your name?), which is even more polite than '어떻게 되세요?'. They begin to see '성함' used in written contexts like formal emails or invitations. The nuance of when *not* to use '성함' (e.g., when the person is of lower status even in a formal setting) is refined. They also start to recognize '성함' in more complex sentence structures involving nested clauses.

At the B2 level, the learner's understanding of '성함' includes its role in the broader system of Korean honorifics (Gyeong-eo). They can explain the difference between '성함,' '성명,' and '존함' to others. B2 learners are comfortable using '성함' in high-pressure situations, such as job interviews or business presentations, and can switch between '이름' and '성함' fluidly as the social dynamic of a conversation shifts. They also understand the psychological nuances—how using '성함' can build rapport with a client or show respect to a senior colleague. Reading comprehension at this level includes identifying the tone of a text based on whether the author uses '이름' or '성함' for various characters.

At the C1 level, learners appreciate the stylistic and historical nuances of '성함.' They can analyze literature or formal speeches to see how '성함' is used to establish character relationships and social status. They are aware of the Hanja (Chinese characters) origins of the word (姓 - surname, 咸 - all/name) and how this influences its formal feel. C1 learners can use '성함' in sophisticated ways, such as in indirect discourse or when discussing abstract concepts of identity and respect in Korean society. They are also sensitive to the rare use of '존함' and can use it appropriately in the most formal or ritualistic settings. Their mastery of '성함' is nearly indistinguishable from that of a native speaker, including the subtle intonation and body language that accompanies its use.

At the C2 level, the learner has a comprehensive grasp of '성함' within the context of the entire history of the Korean language. They understand the evolution of honorific nouns and how '성함' replaced or coexists with older terms. They can engage in deep cultural discussions about the necessity of honorifics in modern Korea and the potential shifts in language use among younger generations. A C2 learner can use '성함' in highly specialized writing, such as academic papers on linguistics or high-level legal documents where the distinction between '성함' and '성명' might be used for specific rhetorical effects. They also possess the ability to use the word ironically or for specific characterization in creative writing, showing a complete command of the word's social and emotional resonance.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

성함 in 30 Seconds

Honorific form of '이름' (name).
Used for elders, superiors, and customers.
Never used for one's own name.
Typically used in the phrase '성함이 어떻게 되세요?'

The Korean word 성함 (Seongham) is the honorific equivalent of the standard word 이름 (Ireum), meaning 'name.' In the complex linguistic hierarchy of the Korean language, choosing the correct level of politeness is not just a grammatical choice but a fundamental sign of respect and social awareness. When you are asking for the name of someone older than you, someone in a higher professional position, or a person you do not know well in a formal setting, using 성함 is absolutely essential. It elevates the subject and demonstrates that you recognize their status or the formality of the situation.

Social Hierarchy: In Korean culture, the concept of 'Chem-myeon' (saving face) and respect for elders is deeply ingrained. Using the word '이름' for a superior can be perceived as blunt or even rude. '성함' functions as a linguistic cushion that softens the request and shows humility on the part of the speaker.

실례지만 성함이 어떻게 되십니까? (Excuse me, but what is your name?)

The word is composed of two Hanja (Sino-Korean) characters: 姓 (Seong), meaning surname, and 咸 (Ham), which is an honorific suffix for a name. While '이름' is used for friends, children, and oneself, '성함' is strictly reserved for others whom you wish to honor. For example, if a receptionist at a high-end hotel asks for your name, they will invariably use '성함.' Conversely, when you provide your name in response, you must revert to the humble or neutral '이름' or simply provide the name without a noun label, as using '성함' to refer to yourself would be a major social faux pas.

Business Context: In a corporate environment, '성함' is the standard. Whether you are addressing a client, a manager from another department, or a senior executive, this word ensures the professional boundary is respected. It is often used during introductions and when filling out official documents for a client.

예약하신 분의 성함을 확인해 주시겠습니까? (Could you please confirm the name of the person who made the reservation?)

Understanding the nuance of '성함' also involves understanding the 'Subject Honorific' system. In Korean, verbs often change form when the subject of the sentence is someone respected. Thus, '성함' is almost always followed by the honorific verb '되시다' (to be) in its various conjugated forms like '되세요' or '되십니까.' This creates a cohesive honorific sentence structure that sounds natural to native ears.

Public Service: Government officials and service workers are trained to use '성함' with the public. It establishes a relationship of service and mutual respect. You will hear this word constantly in banks, hospitals, and government offices.

여기에 성함과 연락처를 적어 주세요. (Please write your name and contact information here.)

Using 성함 correctly involves more than just swapping it with '이름.' It requires a specific grammatical environment. Because '성함' is an honorific noun, it must be supported by appropriate particles and honorific verb endings. The most common pattern is [Person]의 성함이 어떻게 되세요? which literally translates to 'How does [Person]'s name become?' but functions as 'What is [Person]'s name?'

The 'How' vs. 'What' Distinction: In English, we ask 'What' is your name. In polite Korean, asking 'What' (무엇) can sound too direct or inquisitive about the object rather than the person. Using '어떻게 되다' (how it becomes) is the standard polite phrasing used with '성함.' It treats the name as a condition or state of being, which is much softer.

부모님의 성함을 알고 계십니까? (Do you know your parents' names?)

When referring to third parties, '성함' is used if that person is older or of higher status than both the speaker and the listener. For instance, if you are talking to a colleague about your boss, you would use '성함.' However, if you are talking to your boss about your colleague (who is junior), you would use '이름' because the boss is the highest person in the hierarchy of that conversation.

Written vs. Spoken: While '성함' is frequent in speech, in very formal written documents like contracts or applications, you might see '성명' (Seongmyeong). However, in a letter or an email to a professor, '성함' remains the preferred choice to show personal respect.

교수님의 성함을 한자로 써 주시겠어요? (Could you please write the professor's name in Hanja?)

Another important aspect is the use of '성함' in the possessive. You will often see '분의 성함' (the person's name). The word '분' (bun) is the honorific for '사람' (saram - person). Using '사람의 성함' is grammatically mismatched; you should pair honorific nouns together. Therefore, '그 분의 성함' (that person's name) is the correct and natural way to speak.

Negative Contexts: Even in negative sentences, if the subject is respected, the honorific persists. For example, '성함을 잊어버렸습니다' (I have forgotten the name) is used when the person whose name you forgot is someone you should respect.

죄송하지만 성함을 다시 한 번 말씀해 주시겠습니까? (I am sorry, but could you please say your name once more?)

In South Korea, you will encounter 성함 in almost every interaction involving customer service or formal introductions. It is a staple of the 'K-Service' culture, where high levels of politeness are expected from staff in shops, restaurants, and corporate offices. If you are a traveler, the first place you might hear it is at the airport immigration desk or when checking into your hotel.

At the Hospital: When you enter a clinic or hospital, the receptionist will ask for your name to find your records. They will almost always say, '성함이 어떻게 되세요?' This is a critical context because hospitals are places where care and respect are paramount, and the language reflects that.

환자분 성함을 말씀해 주세요. (Please tell me the patient's name.)

You will also hear this word in media, specifically in news broadcasts or talk shows when the host is introducing a guest. If the guest is a professor, a politician, or an elderly artist, the host will use '성함' to show deference. This sets a tone of professionalism for the entire segment. Similarly, in historical dramas (Sageuk), characters use even more elevated versions of this word, but '성함' remains the modern standard for high-level politeness.

In the Classroom: Students referring to their teachers or professors will use '성함.' For example, if a student is asking another student if they know the professor's name, they would say '교수님 성함 알아?' Even though the conversation is casual between friends, the noun '성함' is kept to respect the professor who is the subject.

새로 오신 선생님 성함이 뭐야? (What is the name of the new teacher?)

In wedding ceremonies or formal banquets, the master of ceremonies (MC) will use '성함' when inviting guests to the stage or acknowledging VIPs. This adds an air of dignity to the event. Even in digital spaces, such as high-end shopping apps or banking websites, the input field for a user's name is often labeled '성함' rather than '이름' to provide a premium, respectful user experience.

Interviews and Job Applications: During a job interview, the interviewer will use '성함' when referring to the applicant to maintain a professional distance and show respect to the candidate as an individual. It is part of the formal 'Myeonsop' (interview) etiquette.

지원자분의 성함과 수험 번호를 말씀해 주세요. (Please state the applicant's name and examination number.)

The most frequent mistake learners make with 성함 is applying it to themselves. In Korean honorifics, you never elevate yourself. Using '성함' for your own name sounds incredibly arrogant or simply confused, as if you are giving yourself a title of nobility. Always use '이름' or '성명' when referring to your own name.

Self-Elevation Error: Wrong: 제 성함은 김철수입니다. (My [honorific] name is Chul-soo Kim.)
Right: 제 이름은 김철수입니다. (My name is Chul-soo Kim.)

제 성함은... (X) -> 제 이름은... (O)

Another common error is mismatched verb endings. Since '성함' is a high-honorific noun, using it with casual verb endings like '뭐야?' or '이야' creates a linguistic clash. It’s like wearing a tuxedo with flip-flops. If you are using '성함,' you must use '되세요' or '되십니까.' Conversely, using '이름' with '되세요' is possible but less common than the standard '이름이 뭐예요?'

Confusing '성함' and '성명': While both are more formal than '이름,' '성명' (Seongmyeong) is specifically for administrative and legal contexts (Full Name). Using '성명' in a polite conversation can sound robotic, while using '성함' on a legal form might be seen as slightly out of place, though more acceptable than the reverse.

서류에 성명을 기입해 주세요. (Please fill in your full name on the document.)

A subtle mistake is using '성함' for people who are younger or of lower status in a casual setting. If you ask a child '성함이 어떻게 되세요?', it sounds humorous or overly sarcastic. For children, younger siblings, or close friends, '이름' is the only appropriate choice. Honorifics are about the relationship between people, and using them where they don't belong can be just as awkward as omitting them where they do.

Particle Misuse: Learners often forget the subject particle '이' after '성함.' Saying '성함 어떻게 되세요?' is common in fast speech, but in formal writing or careful speech, '성함이' is the correct form.

저... 성함이 어떻게 되시죠? (Um... what was your name again?)

In Korean, the word for 'name' changes based on the context, the medium of communication, and the level of respect required. Understanding the spectrum from 이름 to 성함 and beyond is key to linguistic fluency.

이름 (Ireum): The most basic, neutral word for 'name.' Used for oneself, friends, children, animals, and objects. It is the 'default' word you learn first in any Korean course.
성명 (Seongmyeong): A formal, Sino-Korean term often translated as 'Full Name.' You see this on passports, application forms, and legal documents. It is objective and lacks the 'honorific' warmth of '성함.'
존함 (Jonham): An even higher honorific than '성함.' It is rarely used in daily conversation but might appear in very formal letters or when referring to highly respected public figures or ancestors in a ritual context.

Comparison Table:
1. Self: 이름
2. Friend: 이름
3. Customer: 성함
4. Legal Form: 성명
5. King/Ancestor: 존함

There are also specialized terms like 명칭 (Myeongching), which refers to the 'title' or 'name' of an organization, object, or concept, rather than a person. Using '성함' for a building or a company would be incorrect. Similarly, 별명 (Byeolmyeong) means 'nickname,' which is always informal.

How to choose?: If you are speaking *to* someone about *their* name: 성함.
If you are writing *your own* name on a form: 성명 or 이름.
If you are talking to a friend about *your* name: 이름.

그 회사의 정식 명칭은 무엇입니까? (What is the official name of that company?)

Finally, consider the word 호칭 (Hoching), which refers to 'address terms' or 'titles' (like Mr., Professor, etc.). While '성함' is the name itself, '호칭' is how you call someone. In many Korean social situations, knowing the correct '호칭' is actually more important than knowing the '성함,' as calling someone by their name—even with '성함'—can sometimes be too personal.

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

In ancient times, names were considered sacred. Using someone's real name was thought to give you power over them, so honorifics like '성함' were developed to refer to people safely and respectfully.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /sʌŋ.ɦam/

US /sʌŋ.hɑːm/

The stress is balanced between both syllables, but the first syllable '성' is slightly more emphasized in formal speech.

Rhymes With

경험 (Gyeongheom - experience) 위험 (Wiheom - danger) 시험 (Siheom - exam) 모험 (Moheom - adventure) 청렴 (Cheongryeom - integrity) 관념 (Gwannyeom - concept) 상념 (Sangnyeom - thought) 양념 (Yangnyeom - seasoning)

Common Errors

Pronouncing '성' like 'song' (English word). It should be closer to 'sung'.
Dropping the 'h' sound in 'ham'.
Pronouncing 'ham' like the English word for pork meat. In Korean, it is a flat 'a' sound.
Over-emphasizing the second syllable.
Failing to use a polite intonation (rising at the end of a question).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 1/5

The word is easy to read as it consists of two simple syllables.

Writing 2/5

Simple to write, but learners must remember the Hanja-based spelling.

Speaking 3/5

Requires correct intonation and pairing with honorific verb endings.

Listening 2/5

Easy to recognize in the common phrase '어떻게 되세요?'

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

이름 (Name) 어떻게 (How) 되다 (To become) 분 (Person - honorific) 선생님 (Teacher)

Learn Next

연세 (Age - honorific) 진지 (Meal - honorific) 댁 (House - honorific) 말씀 (Speech - honorific) 생신 (Birthday - honorific)

Advanced

존함 (High honorific name) 함자 (Archaic honorific name) 휘 (Posthumous name for kings) 성명 (Formal/Full name)

Grammar to Know

Honorific Suffix -시-

성함이 어떻게 되'시'나요?

Subject Particle -이/가 with Honorifics

성함'이' 어떻게 되세요?

Humble vs Honorific Verbs

성함을 '여쭤보다' (Ask - Humble)

Possessive Particle -의

사장님'의' 성함

Indirect Question Ending -는지

성함이 어떻게 되시는지 압니다.

Examples by Level

성함이 어떻게 되세요?

What is your name? (Polite)

성함 (honorific name) + 어떻게 되세요 (polite way to ask 'what is').

선생님 성함이 뭐예요?

What is the teacher's name?

Using '뭐예요' with '성함' is slightly less formal but common among students.

여기에 성함을 써 주세요.

Please write your name here.

써 주세요 (Please write) is a polite request.

성함이 참 예쁘시네요.

Your name is very pretty.

예쁘시네요 uses the honorific '-시-' to respect the person whose name is being complimented.

제 이름은 김민수입니다.

My name is Min-su Kim.

Notice the speaker uses '이름' for themselves, not '성함'.

아버님 성함이 어떻게 되세요?

What is your father's name?

아버님 is the honorific form of '아버지' (father).

성함을 다시 말씀해 주세요.

Please say your name again.

말씀해 주세요 is the polite form of '말해 주세요'.

그 분 성함이 기억 안 나요.

I don't remember that person's name.

그 분 (that person - honorific) pairs with '성함'.

할머니 성함이 어떻게 되시는지 알아요?

Do you know what your grandmother's name is?

되시는지 is an indirect question form of 되시다.

성함을 몰라서 실례를 했습니다.

I committed a discourtesy because I didn't know your name.

실례를 하다 means to be rude or commit a faux pas.

사장님 성함은 이미 알고 있습니다.

I already know the CEO's name.

사장님 (CEO/Boss) is a high-status title.

예약자 성함이 명단에 없는데요.

The name of the person who reserved is not on the list.

예약자 means 'person who made a reservation'.

성함을 부르면 안으로 들어오세요.

When your name is called, please come inside.

부르면 means 'if/when called'.

부모님 성함을 한글로 적어 보세요.

Try writing your parents' names in Hangeul.

적어 보세요 means 'try writing'.

성함이 아주 특이하시네요.

Your name is very unique.

특이하다 means to be unique or unusual.

그 교수님 성함이 어떻게 되더라?

What was that professor's name again?

-더라 is a casual retrospective ending used when talking to oneself or friends.

실례지만 성함을 여쭤봐도 될까요?

Excuse me, but may I ask your name?

여쭤보다 is the humble form of '묻다' (to ask).

성함 뒤에 '씨'를 붙이는 것이 예의입니다.

It is polite to attach '-ssi' after a name.

붙이다 means to attach or add.

고객님의 성함이 정확히 어떻게 되십니까?

What exactly is the customer's name?

정확히 means 'exactly' or 'accurately'.

성함을 잊어버려서 정말 죄송합니다.

I am truly sorry for forgetting your name.

잊어버리다 means to forget completely.

성함만 대면 누구나 다 아는 분입니다.

He is someone everyone knows just by hearing his name.

성함을 대다 means to mention or provide a name.

편지 봉투에 받는 분의 성함을 적으세요.

Write the recipient's name on the envelope.

받는 분 means 'the person who receives'.

성함이 적힌 명찰을 달아 주세요.

Please wear the name tag with your name written on it.

적힌 means 'written' (passive) and 명찰 is a name tag.

본인의 성함은 이름 칸에 기입하세요.

Enter your own name in the name field.

본인 refers to oneself in a formal/legal sense.

그분의 성함은 한국 역사에서 빼놓을 수 없습니다.

That person's name cannot be omitted from Korean history.

빼놓을 수 없다 means 'cannot be left out'.

성함이 불리는 순간 심장이 멎는 것 같았습니다.

The moment my name was called, it felt like my heart stopped.

불리는 is the passive 'being called'.

그 작가님의 성함은 필명으로 더 잘 알려져 있습니다.

That author's name is better known by their pen name.

필명 means 'pen name' or 'pseudonym'.

성함의 한자 뜻이 무엇인지 여쭤봐도 되겠습니까?

May I ask what the Hanja meaning of your name is?

Hanja meanings are often discussed in formal introductions.

성함을 잘못 기재하여 혼란을 드려 죄송합니다.

I am sorry for causing confusion by incorrectly recording the name.

기재하다 is a formal word for 'to record' or 'to fill in'.

성함이 적힌 서류를 분실하지 않도록 주의하세요.

Be careful not to lose the documents with the names on them.

분실하다 is the formal word for 'to lose'.

돌아가신 할아버지의 성함을 함부로 부르지 않습니다.

We do not call our late grandfather's name carelessly.

함부로 means 'carelessly' or 'thoughtlessly'.

성함이 가물가물해서 인사를 제대로 못 드렸어요.

I couldn't greet them properly because their name was fuzzy in my mind.

가물가물하다 means to be dim or fuzzy (memory).

그분의 성함은 시대의 아이콘으로 영원히 기억될 것입니다.

That person's name will be remembered forever as an icon of the era.

기억될 것이다 is the future passive form.

성함이라는 것은 단순한 기호를 넘어 한 개인의 역사를 담고 있습니다.

A name is more than a simple symbol; it contains an individual's history.

-라는 것은 is used to define or discuss a concept.

성함을 언급하는 것조차 조심스러운 권력자였습니다.

He was a powerful person whose name was even cautious to mention.

조심스럽다 means to be cautious or careful.

작가는 작품 속에 자신의 성함을 드러내지 않는 은둔자였습니다.

The writer was a recluse who did not reveal their name in their works.

드러내다 means to reveal or expose.

성함의 유래를 찾아보니 유서 깊은 가문의 후손이시더군요.

Looking into the origin of your name, I found you are a descendant of a family with a long history.

유서 깊다 means to have a long and storied history.

그의 성함은 승리의 대명사로 통용되고 있습니다.

His name is commonly used as a synonym for victory.

대명사 literally means 'pronoun' but here means 'synonym/epitome'.

성함에 먹칠을 하는 행위는 절대 용납될 수 없습니다.

Acts that tarnish one's name can never be tolerated.

먹칠을 하다 (to smear ink) is an idiom for tarnishing a reputation.

성함의 마지막 글자가 항렬자를 따르고 있네요.

The last character of your name follows the generation name marker.

항렬자 is a character shared by members of the same generation in a clan.

성함 석 자에 담긴 무게가 그를 평생 옥죄어 왔다.

The weight contained in the three characters of his name had constricted him his whole life.

옥죄다 means to tighten, constrict, or oppress.

선대 왕의 성함을 피휘하는 것은 신하의 도리였다.

Avoiding the characters of the late king's name was the duty of a subject.

피휘 (Pihwi) is the historical practice of avoiding names of superiors.

그의 성함은 이제 전설의 반열에 올라 신화가 되었다.

His name has now risen to the ranks of legend and become a myth.

반열에 오르다 means to reach a certain rank or level.

성함조차 말살당했던 식민지 시대의 아픔을 잊지 말아야 한다.

We must not forget the pain of the colonial era when even names were obliterated.

말살당하다 means to be obliterated or wiped out.

그의 성함은 시대의 어둠을 밝히는 등불처럼 회자되었다.

His name was talked about like a lamp lighting the darkness of the era.

회자되다 means to be on everyone's lips / to be talked about.

성함의 자획 하나하나에 부모의 염원이 서려 있다.

The parents' aspirations are embedded in every stroke of the name's characters.

서려 있다 means to be permeated or filled with (emotion/spirit).

성함이 지닌 상징성은 물리적 실체를 압도하기도 한다.

The symbolism possessed by a name sometimes overwhelms the physical reality.

압도하다 means to overwhelm or overpower.

그분의 성함은 고결한 인격의 표상으로 남을 것이다.

That person's name will remain as a symbol of noble character.

표상 means 'symbol' or 'emblem'.

Common Collocations

성함이 어떻게 되세요?

성함을 여쭤보다

성함을 적다

성함을 확인하다

성함이 불리다

성함을 잊어버리다

성함을 말씀하시다

성함이 적히다

성함과 연락처

본인 성함

Common Phrases

성함이 어떻게 되십니까?

— The most formal way to ask for a name. Used in business and very formal settings.

처음 뵙겠습니다. 성함이 어떻게 되십니까?

성함이 어떻게 되세요?

— The standard polite way to ask for a name. Used in daily polite life.

안녕하세요, 성함이 어떻게 되세요?

성함이 어떻게 되시죠?

— A slightly softer, more inquisitive way to ask for a name, often used when you should know it but forgot.

죄송하지만 성함이 어떻게 되시죠?

성함을 남겨 주세요

— Please leave your name. Often used for messages or waitlists.

자리가 나면 연락드릴 테니 성함을 남겨 주세요.

성함을 여쭈어 봐도 될까요?

— May I ask your name? A very humble and soft way to start an introduction.

실례지만 성함을 여쭈어 봐도 될까요?

성함을 알고 싶습니다

— I would like to know your name. Direct but polite.

그분의 성함을 알고 싶습니다.

성함을 기억하고 있습니다

— I remember your name. Used to show care and respect.

네, 고객님 성함을 기억하고 있습니다.

성함이 틀렸습니다

— The name is incorrect. Used politely to point out an error.

죄송하지만 여기 적힌 성함이 틀렸습니다.

성함으로 예약하셨나요?

— Did you make a reservation under your name?

어떤 성함으로 예약하셨나요?

성함이 불릴 때까지

— Until your name is called.

성함이 불릴 때까지 대기실에서 기다려 주세요.

Often Confused With

성함 vs 성명 (Seongmyeong)

Confused because both are formal. 성명 is for documents; 성함 is for polite speech.

성함 vs 이름 (Ireum)

Confused by beginners who use '이름' for superiors or '성함' for themselves.

성함 vs 성함 (Seongham) vs. 성함 (Seong-ham - box)

The word '함' can also mean a traditional box, but context makes the difference clear.

Idioms & Expressions

"성함에 먹칠을 하다"

— To tarnish someone's name or reputation (literally 'to smear ink on a name').

가문의 성함에 먹칠을 하지 마라.

Formal/Literary

"이름값을 하다"

— To live up to one's name or reputation.

그는 정말 이름값을 하는 선수다.

General

"이름을 날리다"

— To become famous or well-known.

그는 젊은 나이에 이름을 날렸다.

General

"성함을 팔다"

— To use someone else's name or influence for one's own gain.

내 성함을 팔고 다니지 마라.

Negative/Informal

"성함 석 자를 걸다"

— To bet on one's name/honor (to guarantee something with one's reputation).

내 성함 석 자를 걸고 약속한다.

Formal/Determined

"이름이 높다"

— To have a high reputation; to be prestigious.

그 학교는 이름이 높기로 유명하다.

Formal

"이름도 성도 모르다"

— To know absolutely nothing about someone (not even their name).

이름도 성도 모르는 사람을 어떻게 믿어요?

General

"이름만 대면 다 안다"

— Everyone knows them; they are very famous.

그분은 이름만 대면 다 아는 유명인이에요.

General

"성함이 아깝다"

— The person's actions are not worthy of their good name.

그런 짓을 하다니 성함이 아깝군요.

Critical

"이름을 올리다"

— To have one's name recorded on a list or record.

그는 명예의 전당에 이름을 올렸다.

Formal

Easily Confused

성함 vs 성명

Both mean 'name' and start with '성'.

성명 is clinical and used for forms; 성함 is honorific and used for people.

passports show '성명', but a clerk asks for your '성함'.

성함 vs 이름

They have the same basic meaning.

이름 is for equals/juniors/self; 성함 is for seniors/strangers.

Asking a child: '이름이 뭐니?'; Asking an elder: '성함이 어떻게 되세요?'

성함 vs 존함

Both are honorifics.

존함 is much higher and rarer; 성함 is the standard polite choice.

You might use '존함' for a king or a very old, respected monk.

성함 vs 명칭

Both refer to what something is called.

명칭 is for objects/organizations; 성함 is only for people.

The '명칭' of a company, but the '성함' of the CEO.

성함 vs 함자

Both are honorifics.

함자 specifically refers to the Chinese characters of the name; 성함 is more general.

'함자가 어떻게 되십니까?' sounds very traditional/old-fashioned.

Sentence Patterns

[Person] 성함이 어떻게 되세요?

선생님 성함이 어떻게 되세요?

[Person] 성함을 아세요?

할머니 성함을 아세요?

성함을 여쭤봐도 될까요?

실례지만 성함을 여쭤봐도 될까요?

성함이 어떻게 되시는지...

성함이 어떻게 되시는지 말씀해 주시겠어요?

성함에 걸맞은 [Noun]

성함에 걸맞은 훌륭한 분이시네요.

성함 석 자를 [Verb]

성함 석 자를 가슴에 새기겠습니다.

여기에 성함을 [Verb]

여기에 성함을 써 주세요.

성함으로 예약하다

김철수 성함으로 예약했습니다.

Word Family

Nouns

성 (Surname)

함 (Name - honorific suffix)

성명 (Full name - formal)

존함 (High honorific name)

이름 (Name - neutral)

호칭 (Address term)

직함 (Job title)

별명 (Nickname)

성씨 (Surname - polite)

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely high in daily polite interaction and service industry.

Common Mistakes

제 성함은 [Name]입니다. → 제 이름은 [Name]입니다.
You should never use the honorific '성함' for yourself. Use '이름' or the formal '성명'.
성함이 뭐야? → 성함이 어떻게 되세요?
Mixing the honorific noun '성함' with the casual verb '뭐야' is grammatically inconsistent and sounds very strange.
아이 성함이 어떻게 되세요? → 아이 이름이 뭐예요?
Using honorifics for a child is inappropriate unless you are being intentionally humorous or overly formal.
성함이 무엇입니까? → 성함이 어떻게 되십니까?
While '무엇입니까' is grammatically correct, '어떻게 되십니까' is the culturally preferred polite idiom.
그 회사의 성함은... → 그 회사의 명칭은...
'성함' is only for people. For companies or objects, use '명칭' or '이름'.

Tips

The Golden Rule

If the person is older than you, use '성함'. If you are in a shop or restaurant, use '성함' for the customer. This simple rule covers 90% of situations.

Pair with -시-

Always remember that '성함' usually triggers the honorific marker '-시-' in the verb. '되다' becomes '되시다', then '되세요' or '되십니까'.

Business Cards

When exchanging business cards, you can say '성함을 확인하겠습니다' (I will confirm the name) as you look at the card to show respect.

S is for Senior

Remember: '성함' (Seongham) starts with S, just like 'Senior' or 'Sir'. Use it for people you'd call Sir or Ma'am.

Avoid Direct Names

Even if you know someone's '성함', it's often more polite to call them by their title (e.g., 선생님) rather than their name + 씨.

Email Politeness

When emailing a professor, use '교수님의 성함' if you need to refer to their name in the body of the text.

Softening Questions

Adding '실례지만' (Excuse me but...) before asking for a '성함' makes you sound like a native speaker with excellent manners.

Airport/Hotel

Expect to hear '성함' at the check-in desk. They aren't asking for your 'ham', they want your name!

Self-Check

Never say 'My 성함 is...'. If you catch yourself doing this, immediately correct it to '이름' to show you know the rule.

Hanja Knowledge

Knowing that '성' (姓) means surname helps you remember that '성함' usually refers to the full name, including the surname.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'SUNG-HAM'. You 'SUNG' (sing) praises to a person's name and offer them a 'HAM' (gift) because you respect them so much.

Visual Association

Imagine a golden nameplate on a desk. The word '성함' is engraved on it in beautiful calligraphy, shining under a light.

Word Web

Respect Honorifics Elders Polite Customer Identity Formal Hierarchy

Challenge

Try to find three situations today where you would use '성함' instead of '이름'. For example, if you met a professor, an old neighbor, or a doctor.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja) roots. It is a compound of '성' (姓) and '함' (咸).

Original meaning: The character 姓 (Seong) means 'surname' or 'family name.' The character 咸 (Ham) is an honorific used in the context of names, originally meaning 'all' or 'completely,' but evolving in Korean to signify a respectful way to refer to the 'bit' or 'seal' of a person's name.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-based vocabulary).

Cultural Context

Never use '성함' for yourself. Also, be aware that in some very traditional families, children are taught not to say their parents' '성함' directly, but to say the characters one by one (e.g., 'My father's name is Kim, Chul, and Soo').

English speakers often struggle with '성함' because English lacks a specific 'honorific' noun for 'name.' The closest equivalent is 'May I have your name?' vs 'What's your name?'

The movie 'Your Name' (Kimi no Na wa) is translated as '너의 이름은' in Korean because it's about peers; it would never be '너의 성함은'. Historical dramas often use '함자' (Ham-ja) as a more archaic, high-honorific version of '성함'. In the 'Surnames and Names' law in Korea, '성명' is the legal term used on all IDs.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Hospital Reception

성함이 어떻게 되세요?
여기에 성함을 적어 주세요.
성함 확인하겠습니다.
성함이 불리면 들어오세요.

Business Meeting

성함을 여쭤봐도 될까요?
제 명함입니다. 성함이...
상무님 성함이 어떻게 되시죠?
성함을 기억하고 있었습니다.

Formal Introduction

성함이 참 멋지십니다.
부모님 성함이 어떻게 되세요?
성함의 뜻이 무엇인가요?
실례지만 성함이 어떻게 되십니까?

Customer Service

예약자 성함을 말씀해 주세요.
고객님 성함이 명단에 없습니다.
성함과 연락처를 남겨 주시겠어요?
어떤 성함으로 보내드릴까요?

School/University

교수님 성함이 어떻게 되니?
선생님 성함을 칠판에 적어라.
성함 뒤에 직함을 붙여라.
새 친구의 성함을 물어봤니?

Conversation Starters

"실례지만, 성함이 어떻게 되시는지 여쭤봐도 될까요?"

"성함이 참 독특하신데, 어떤 의미가 있나요?"

"혹시 제가 그분의 성함을 잘못 알고 있는 건 아니겠죠?"

"성함이 제가 아는 유명한 분과 같으시네요!"

"여기에 성함과 전화번호를 적어 주시면 감사하겠습니다."

Journal Prompts

오늘 처음 만난 사람의 성함을 기억하나요? 그 성함에 대해 느낀 점을 써 보세요.

부모님의 성함을 한자로 쓸 수 있나요? 그 성함에 담긴 뜻을 조사해 보세요.

자신의 이름이 아닌 '성함'으로 불렸을 때의 기분은 어떠했나요?

한국의 '성함' 문화와 자신의 나라의 이름 문화의 차이점을 설명해 보세요.

미래에 자녀를 갖게 된다면 어떤 성함을 지어주고 싶은지, 그리고 그 이유는 무엇인지 적어 보세요.

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

No, you should never use '성함' for yourself. In Korean, you only use honorifics to elevate others. Using it for yourself makes you sound arrogant or like you don't understand the language. Always use '이름' or '성명' when talking about your own name.

It is not grammatically 'wrong,' but it is socially awkward. '뭐예요' (What is it?) is too direct for the honorific '성함.' The standard, natural phrase is '성함이 어떻게 되세요?' which is much softer and more polite.

You should continue using '성함' until the other person suggests that you can speak more comfortably (말을 놓다), or until you become very close friends of the same age. In professional settings, '성함' is usually maintained indefinitely.

'성명' (Seongmyeong) is a formal word used primarily on official documents, passports, and applications. It is objective. '성함' (Seongham) is an honorific word used in spoken or written communication to show respect to a specific person.

Generally, no. Using '성함' for a child sounds like you are being sarcastic or joking. For children, the neutral '이름' is the correct choice: '이름이 뭐니?' (What is your name?).

You should answer with '[Name]입니다' or '제 이름은 [Name]입니다.' Do not use '성함' in your answer. For example: '제 이름은 김민수입니다.' (My name is Min-su Kim.)

Yes, '성함' is also used in North Korea as an honorific, though their overall system of honorifics has some differences from the South. It remains a respectful way to refer to a name.

In Korean culture, asking 'What' is something can be very blunt. '어떻게 되다' literally means 'how does it become.' It's an indirect way of asking, which is considered much more sophisticated and polite in honorific speech.

Yes, when you are talking *about* your parents to someone else, you should use '성함' to show respect for them. For example: '저희 아버님 성함은...' (My father's name is...).

No, '성함' is strictly for humans who deserve respect. For pets, always use '이름'.