This page in your language

فارسی

العربية

Deutsch

Español

Français

日本語

한국어

Português

中文

हिन्दी

B1 noun #6,500 most common 9 min read

명성

Top 6,500

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips 명성 in 30 Seconds

Explanation 명성 in your Level:

At the A1 level, you don't need to use the word '명성' (myeong-seong) often. It is a big word. Instead, you usually use '유명해요' (is famous). However, it is good to know that '명성' means 'fame.' Think of it like this: '유명하다' is an adjective (He is famous), and '명성' is the noun (His fame). If you see this word in a book, just remember it is about someone having a very big, good name that many people know. You can use it simply: '그는 명성이 있어요' (He has fame). But usually, A1 students say '그는 아주 유명한 사람이에요' (He is a very famous person). Focus on the idea that '명성' is a positive thing. It is like having a gold star next to your name that everyone in the world can see. It is used for kings, great doctors, or world-class soccer players like Son Heung-min.

For A2 learners, '명성' (myeong-seong) is a useful noun to expand your vocabulary beyond simple adjectives. You might start seeing it in short stories or news headlines. It means 'reputation' or 'fame.' At this level, you can learn common pairs like '명성을 얻다' (to gain fame). For example, '그 가수는 노래를 잘해서 명성을 얻었어요' (That singer gained fame because they sing well). It is important to know that '명성' is more formal than '인기' (popularity). If you like a YouTuber, they have '인기.' If a doctor saves many lives and everyone respects them, they have '명성.' You can also use it to describe schools or companies. '이 대학교는 명성이 높아요' (This university has a high reputation). This sounds much more professional than just saying the school is 'famous.' Start using it when you want to show respect to the person or thing you are talking about.

At the B1 level, you should be able to distinguish between '명성' (myeong-seong) and other similar words like '인기' (popularity) and '평판' (reputation). '명성' is specifically about 'renown'—it carries a sense of honor and achievement. You will often encounter the idiom '명성이 자자하다,' which means someone's reputation is widespread. You should use this word in formal writing or when discussing historical figures and professional achievements. For example, '그는 평생의 연구 끝에 마침내 세계적인 명성을 얻게 되었다' (After a lifetime of research, he finally gained world-wide renown). Notice how '명성' is often used with the object marker '-을' and verbs like '얻다' (gain) or '쌓다' (build/accumulate). It is a key word for discussing success in a serious way. You might also hear it in the context of '가문의 명성' (family honor/fame), which is a common theme in Korean culture and dramas.

B2 learners should master the nuanced usage of '명성' (myeong-seong) in various professional and literary contexts. You should understand that '명성' is almost always positive, whereas '평판' (reputation) is neutral and '악명' (notoriety) is negative. A key phrase at this level is '명성에 걸맞다' (to live up to/match one's reputation). For example, '그 식당의 음식 맛은 과연 명성에 걸맞은 수준이었다' (The taste of the food at that restaurant was indeed at a level worthy of its reputation). You should also be comfortable using '명성' in more abstract discussions, such as the fleeting nature of fame or the responsibilities that come with it. Understanding the Hanja roots—名 (name) and 聲 (sound)—will help you appreciate why this word implies the 'spreading' of one's name. It is frequently used in business to describe 'brand equity' or the long-standing prestige of a corporation.

At the C1 level, you should be able to use '명성' (myeong-seong) with precision in academic and highly formal settings. You should recognize its role in constructing complex sentences that discuss social status, legacy, and public perception. For instance, you might analyze how '명성' can be a burden, using terms like '유명세' (the price of fame) in contrast. You should also understand literary expressions like '명성을 떨치다' (to make one's fame resonate far and wide) or '명성에 먹칠을 하다' (to smear/stain one's reputation). At this level, you can use the word to discuss historical shifts in what constitutes 'fame'—from scholarly virtue in the Joseon Dynasty to digital influence today. You should also be able to distinguish '명성' from '명망' (prestige/high standing), where '명망' often implies a level of moral authority and public trust that goes beyond just being well-known.

For C2 speakers, '명성' (myeong-seong) is a tool for nuanced social and philosophical commentary. You should be able to discuss the sociological implications of 'Myeong-seong' in a Confucian-influenced society, where public honor and collective identity are paramount. You can use the word to explore themes of 'Posthumous fame' (사후의 명성) or the 'Vanity of worldly fame' (세속적 명성의 허무함). Your usage should include sophisticated collocations and metaphors, such as comparing fame to a 'double-edged sword' or 'fading smoke.' You should also be adept at using the word in legal or highly formal professional contexts, such as discussing 'damage to reputation' in a way that distinguishes between individual '명예' (honor) and the broader '명성' (renown) of a person's work or institution. At this level, '명성' is not just a vocabulary word; it is a conceptual lens through which you can examine achievement, public life, and the enduring power of a name.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

명성 in 30 Seconds

명성 means 'fame' or 'renown' and is used for high-level respect earned through great achievement.
It is a formal noun, often paired with verbs like '얻다' (gain) or '자자하다' (widespread).
Unlike 'popularity,' it suggests a deeper, more lasting reputation for excellence or virtue.
It is commonly used in news, history, and professional contexts to describe prestigious entities.

The Korean word 명성 (Myeong-seong) is a sophisticated noun that translates primarily to 'fame,' 'renown,' or 'reputation.' Derived from the Hanja characters 名 (명 - Name) and 聲 (성 - Sound/Voice), it literally evokes the idea of the 'sound of one's name' echoing through society. Unlike simple popularity (인기), which can be fleeting and superficial, 명성 implies a level of established prestige and respect earned over time through significant achievements, virtuous character, or exceptional skill.

Semantic Nuance: While 'popularity' refers to being liked by many, '명성' refers to being known for excellence. A scientist may have great 명성 in their field without being 'popular' in the mainstream sense. It carries a weight of authority and historical standing.
Social Context: In Korean culture, maintaining one's 명성 is closely tied to the concept of 'face' and honor. It is something built over a lifetime but can be tarnished in a single moment of indiscretion.
Collocational Power: It is frequently paired with powerful verbs like 얻다 (to gain), 쌓다 (to build), and 떨치다 (to spread/make known far and wide).

그는 뛰어난 실력으로 전 세계에 명성을 떨쳤다. (He spread his fame across the whole world with his outstanding skills.)

Historically, 명성 was reserved for scholars, generals, and royalty. In modern contexts, it is applied to world-class athletes, renowned artists, and prestigious institutions like universities or long-standing corporations. When you use this word, you are elevating the subject to a status of high regard. It is not a word used lightly for a local influencer or a temporary trend; it denotes a legacy. For instance, a restaurant with a 50-year history of serving the best 'naengmyeon' is said to have a 명성 that draws people from across the country.

그 병원은 수술 잘하기로 명성이 자자하다. (That hospital is widely renowned for its surgical expertise.)

It is also important to note the difference between 명성 and 평판 (reputation). While 평판 can be positive or negative (good reputation vs. bad reputation), 명성 is almost exclusively positive unless modified by a negative context (though even then, 악명—notorious fame—is usually preferred for negative contexts). Therefore, when someone says you have 명성, it is a high compliment regarding your professional or moral standing in the community.

가문의 명성에 먹칠을 하지 마라. (Do not smear the reputation of the family.)

그는 부와 명성을 모두 거머쥐었다. (He grabbed both wealth and fame.)

세속적인 명성은 뜬구름과 같다. (Worldly fame is like a floating cloud.)

Mastering 명성 involves understanding the specific verbs it pairs with. In Korean, the 'action' taken with fame defines the sentence's tone. Whether you are gaining it, maintaining it, or losing it, the verb choice is critical. This section explores these grammatical partnerships in detail to help you sound like a native speaker.

Gaining Fame: 얻다 & 쌓다: To describe the process of becoming famous, use 얻다 (to get/gain) for a specific achievement, or 쌓다 (to build/stack) to imply a long-term effort.
Example: 그는 연구를 통해 학계의 명성을 얻었다. (He gained academic fame through his research.)
Spreading Fame: 떨치다 & 자자하다: When fame is widespread, 떨치다 is an active verb (to make one's fame known), while 자자하다 is an adjective describing the state of being widely talked about.
Example: 그의 용맹함은 나라 안팎에 명성이 자자했다. (His bravery was widely renowned inside and outside the country.)
Losing Fame: 더럽히다 & 잃다: To describe a fall from grace, 더럽히다 (to stain/dirty) or 먹칠하다 (to smear with ink) are used figuratively.
Example: 그의 실수는 가문의 명성을 더럽혔다. (His mistake stained the family's fame.)

그 화가는 죽은 뒤에야 비로소 세계적인 명성을 얻었다. (That painter finally gained world-class fame only after his death.)

In formal writing, 명성 often acts as the subject of a sentence to emphasize the weight of the reputation itself. In these cases, verbs like 높아지다 (to become higher) or 자자하다 (to be widespread) are common. In more active, narrative forms, the person 'pursues' (쫓다) or 'enjoys' (누리다) the fame. Using 누리다 suggests a state of comfortable success and public acknowledgment.

그는 명성에 걸맞은 행동을 하려고 노력한다. (He tries to act in a way that matches his reputation.)

Another advanced usage involves the phrase 명성에 걸맞다, which means 'to be worthy of/match one's reputation.' This is frequently used when reviewing high-end products, famous restaurants, or the performance of a legendary athlete. If a famous singer gives a mediocre performance, a critic might say, 'It did not match their fame' (명성에 걸맞지 않았다).

이곳의 요리는 그 명성만큼이나 훌륭했다. (The food here was as wonderful as its reputation.)

그는 명성을 유지하기 위해 끊임없이 노력했다. (He worked tirelessly to maintain his fame.)

한순간의 실수로 평생 쌓아온 명성이 무너졌다. (The fame built over a lifetime collapsed due to a single moment's mistake.)

The word 명성 isn't typically used in casual banter between friends about a new K-pop idol—for that, you'd use 인기 (popularity). Instead, you will encounter 명성 in more formal, serious, or literary settings. Understanding these domains will help you recognize the gravity of the word when it appears.

News and Documentaries: In media, 명성 is used to describe institutions, world leaders, or historic figures. A news anchor might discuss the 'declining fame of a once-great empire' or the 'rising fame of a Korean tech company.'
Historical Dramas (Sageuk): In period pieces, characters often talk about the 명성 of their clan or the King's 명성 throughout the land. It is a central theme in stories about honor and legacy.
Literature and Philosophy: Novels and philosophical essays frequently treat 명성 as a double-edged sword—something that brings power but also a lack of freedom or the danger of vanity.

그 대학은 법학 분야에서 세계적인 명성을 가지고 있습니다. (That university has a world-class reputation in the field of law.)

You will also hear this word in the context of high-end branding. Luxury car companies or fashion houses often use 명성 in their marketing materials to emphasize their heritage and the quality associated with their name. It suggests that their status is not a recent trend but a long-standing truth recognized by the public. For example, a commercial might say, 'A name that carries 100 years of 명성.'

그는 최고의 요리사라는 명성에 답하기 위해 최선을 다했다. (He did his best to live up to his reputation as a top chef.)

In academic lectures, professors might use the term to describe the 'intellectual fame' of a theory or a scholar. It is a very 'heavy' word that commands attention. If you use it in a conversation, it signals that you are discussing something of high value or significant social standing. It is also found in many proverbs and idioms regarding the vanity of human life, where 'fame' is compared to morning dew or shifting shadows.

그의 명성은 시간이 흘러도 변함이 없다. (His fame remains unchanged even as time passes.)

우리는 조상들의 명성을 이어받아 발전시켜야 한다. (We must inherit and develop the fame of our ancestors.)

그 작가는 문학적 명성을 쌓는 데 평생을 바쳤다. (The author devoted his whole life to building his literary fame.)

While 명성 is a powerful word, it is often misused by learners who treat it as a direct synonym for 'popularity' or 'news.' Because Korean has several words for 'reputation' and 'fame,' choosing the wrong one can make a sentence sound unnatural or unintentionally humorous.

Mistake 1: Confusing 명성 with 인기 (Popularity): Learners often say '아이돌의 명성' when they mean '아이돌의 인기.' 인기 is about being liked and having many fans right now. 명성 is about being respected for long-term achievement. You wouldn't say a new viral TikToker has 명성 yet.
Mistake 2: Using it for Negative Reputation: If a person is famous for being a criminal, do not use 명성. Instead, use 악명 (notoriety/ill-fame). Saying '그 도둑은 명성이 높다' sounds like you are praising the thief's skills as a noble virtue.
Mistake 3: Confusing with 평판 (Reputation): 평판 is the evaluation people have of you (good or bad). You can have a 'bad 평판' in your office. 명성 is a broader, more public 'glory.' You wouldn't usually use 명성 to describe how your coworkers feel about your punctuality.

❌ 그 영화는 재미없기로 명성이 높다. (Incorrect: That movie is famous for being boring.)
✅ 그 영화는 재미없기로 악명이 높다. (Correct: That movie is notorious for being boring.)

Another subtle mistake is the scale of the word. 명성 is a 'big' word. Using it for small, local things can sound overly dramatic or sarcastic. If you say the local convenience store owner has '명성,' it might sound like you are making fun of him unless he is truly a legendary figure in the neighborhood for a specific reason.

❌ 그는 친구들 사이에서 명성이 있다. (Awkward: He has fame among friends.)
✅ 그는 친구들 사이에서 인기가 많다. (Natural: He is popular among friends.)

Lastly, be careful with the verb 날리다. While 명성을 날리다 (to fly/spread one's fame) is a valid and common expression, 이름을 날리다 is more common in slightly less formal contexts. Using 명성 with 날리다 makes it sound like a grand epic or a high-stakes professional achievement.

그는 젊은 나이에 이미 건축가로서 명성을 날리고 있다. (He is already spreading his fame as an architect at a young age.)

Korean has a rich vocabulary for describing how people are known. Depending on the context—whether it's social media popularity, professional prestige, or a bad reputation—you should choose the word that fits best. Here is a comparison of 명성 with its closest relatives.

명성 (Myeong-seong) vs. 인기 (In-gi): 명성: Focuses on prestige, honor, and long-term respect. (e.g., A Nobel laureate).
인기: Focuses on being liked, favored, or 'trendy' by the public. (e.g., A pop star).
명성 (Myeong-seong) vs. 평판 (Pyeong-pan): 명성: Grand, public, and usually positive 'glory.'
평판: Day-to-day 'reputation' or 'review' that can be good or bad. 'Reputation in the office' is always 평판.
명성 (Myeong-seong) vs. 유명세 (Yu-myeong-se): 유명세: This literally means the 'tax' of being famous. It refers to the difficulties or inconveniences that come with being a celebrity (e.g., lack of privacy). Use this when fame is a burden.
명성 (Myeong-seong) vs. 명망 (Myeong-mang): 명망: Even higher and more formal than 명성. It combines 'fame' with 'hope/expectation.' It is used for highly respected elders or leaders whom people look up to for guidance.

그는 인기는 많지만, 진정한 명성을 얻지는 못했다. (He has a lot of popularity, but he hasn't gained true renown.)

When you want to emphasize that someone is 'well-known' without the heavy baggage of 'honor,' the verb 유명하다 (to be famous) is your best friend. It is versatile and neutral. However, if you are writing a formal essay, a biography, or a formal recommendation, 명성 or its related forms like 명성이 높다 will elevate the quality of your prose significantly.

그 회사는 기술력뿐만 아니라 사회적 평판도 매우 좋다. (That company has a very good social reputation as well as technical prowess.)

In summary, choose 명성 for glory and honor, 인기 for being liked, 평판 for general reviews, and 악명 for being famous for something bad. Using these correctly will show that you understand the social hierarchy and values embedded in the Korean language.

그 배우는 유명세 때문에 사생활을 보호받기 힘들다. (That actor finds it hard to have privacy due to the price of fame.)

그는 지역 사회에서 명망이 높은 인사이다. (He is a highly respected and renowned figure in the local community.)

How Formal Is It?

Fun Fact

The character 성 (聲) also appears in words like '목소리' (voice - 음성) and '소리' (sound). It suggests that in the past, fame was something you 'heard' about through people's voices and rumors rather than seeing it on a screen.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /mjʌŋ.sʌŋ/

US /mjʌŋ.sʌŋ/

Equal stress on both syllables: MYEONG-SEONG.

Rhymes With

정성 (Jeong-seong - sincerity) 형성 (Hyeong-seong - formation) 음성 (Eum-seong - voice) 행성 (Haeng-seong - planet) 수성 (Su-seong - defense) 본성 (Bon-seong - nature) 반성 (Ban-seong - reflection) 함성 (Ham-seong - shout)

Common Errors

Pronouncing 'myeong' as 'me-yong' (two syllables). It is one gliding syllable.
Adding too much air to the 's' in 'seong' making it sound like 'sheong'.
Confusing the final 'ng' (ㅇ) with 'n' (ㄴ).
Pronouncing 'myeong' like 'myeong-i' by adding extra vowels.
Failing to keep the 'eo' (ㅓ) vowel open enough.

Difficulty Rating

Reading 4/5

Requires understanding of Hanja-based vocabulary and formal sentence structures.

Writing 5/5

Challenging to use naturally without confusing it with popularity or reputation.

Speaking 4/5

Used mostly in formal presentations or serious discussions about respect.

Listening 3/5

Common in news and documentaries, making it easier to recognize over time.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

이름 (Name) 인기 (Popularity) 유명하다 (Famous) 얻다 (Get/Gain) 높다 (High)

Learn Next

명예 (Honor) 명망 (Prestige) 악명 (Notoriety) 유명세 (Price of fame) 자자하다 (To be widespread)

Advanced

명불허전 (Reputation not in vain) 입신양명 (Succeeding and making a name) 불후의 명작 (Immortal masterpiece) 명실상부 (Being true to its name)

Grammar to Know

N + 에 걸맞다 (To be worthy of/match N)

그의 실력은 명성에 걸맞다.

N + 을/를 통해 (Through N)

그는 꾸준한 노력을 통해 명성을 얻었다.

N + 로서 (As a/an N - Role/Status)

그는 화가로서 세계적인 명성을 쌓았다.

V + 기 마련이다 (It is bound to V / Naturally so)

명성이 높아지면 시기도 따르기 마련이다.

N + 덕분에 (Thanks to N)

선생님의 명성 덕분에 많은 학생들이 모였다.

Examples by Level

그는 명성이 있는 가수예요.

He is a singer with fame.

명성 (noun) + 이 (subject marker) + 있는 (describing) + 가수 (singer).

이 책은 명성이 높아요.

This book has a high reputation.

명성 (noun) + 이 (subject marker) + 높다 (to be high).

그 화가는 명성을 얻었어요.

That painter gained fame.

명성 (noun) + 을 (object marker) + 얻다 (to gain).

명성은 아주 중요해요.

Fame is very important.

명성 (noun) + 은 (topic marker) + 중요해요 (is important).

그 요리사는 명성이 자자해요.

That chef's fame is widespread.

자자하다 (to be widespread/talked about).

우리는 그의 명성을 알아요.

We know his fame.

알다 (to know) used with an object.

명성을 쌓는 것은 어려워요.

Building fame is difficult.

쌓다 (to stack/build) + 는 것 (making it a noun phrase).

그 도시는 명성이 있어요.

That city has fame (is famous).

있다 (to have/exist).

그 배우는 전 세계에서 명성을 얻었다.

That actor gained fame all over the world.

전 세계 (all over the world) + 에서 (location marker).

이 식당은 맛으로 명성을 쌓았습니다.

This restaurant built a reputation for its taste.

~으로 (by means of/reason).

선생님은 교육자로서 명성이 높으십니다.

The teacher has a high reputation as an educator.

높으시다 (honorific form of 높다).

그의 명성은 나라 전체에 퍼졌어요.

His fame spread throughout the whole country.

퍼지다 (to spread).

가문의 명성을 지키는 것이 중요합니다.

It is important to protect the family's fame.

지키다 (to protect/keep).

그는 명성보다 실력을 더 중요하게 생각해요.

He thinks skill is more important than fame.

~보다 (than) comparing two nouns.

그 회사는 좋은 제품으로 명성을 얻고 있어요.

That company is gaining fame for its good products.

얻고 있다 (present progressive).

그의 명성은 거짓이 아니었어요.

His fame was not a lie.

거짓 (lie) + 이 아니다 (to not be).

그 학자는 자신의 연구로 국제적인 명성을 쌓았다.

That scholar built international renown through his research.

국제적인 (international) + 명성 (noun).

한순간의 실수로 공들여 쌓은 명성을 잃었다.

He lost the fame he had painstakingly built with a single mistake.

공들여 쌓은 (built with great effort).

이 도시는 예술의 도시로 명성이 자자하다.

This city is widely renowned as a city of art.

자자하다 (to be widespread/talked about).

그의 명성에 걸맞은 훌륭한 연기였다.

It was a wonderful performance worthy of his reputation.

~에 걸맞다 (to be worthy of/match).

부와 명성을 모두 얻는 것은 쉬운 일이 아니다.

Gaining both wealth and fame is not an easy task.

부 (wealth) + 와 (and) + 명성 (fame).

그는 명성을 유지하기 위해 끊임없이 노력했다.

He worked tirelessly to maintain his fame.

유지하다 (to maintain).

그 소설가는 첫 작품으로 큰 명성을 얻었다.

That novelist gained great fame with their first work.

첫 작품 (first work/debut).

그의 명성은 세월이 흘러도 변함이 없다.

His fame remains unchanged even as time passes.

세월이 흐르다 (time passes).

그 기업은 혁신적인 기술력으로 세계적인 명성을 떨치고 있다.

The company is spreading its world-class fame with innovative technology.

떨치다 (to make known widely/spread).

그는 명성에 안주하지 않고 새로운 도전을 시작했다.

He did not settle for his fame and started a new challenge.

안주하다 (to settle/be complacent).

그의 명성은 실력보다는 운에 의한 것이라는 비판도 있다.

There are criticisms that his fame is due to luck rather than skill.

~에 의한 (due to/by).

그는 가문의 명성에 먹칠을 하지 않으려고 조심스럽게 행동했다.

He acted carefully so as not to smear the family's reputation.

먹칠을 하다 (to smear with ink/tarnish).

명성이 높아질수록 그에 따른 책임감도 커지기 마련이다.

As fame grows higher, the accompanying responsibility naturally grows too.

-기 마련이다 (to be bound to/naturally so).

그 작가는 대중적인 인기보다 문학적 명성을 더 소중히 여겼다.

The author valued literary fame more than popular popularity.

소중히 여기다 (to value/treasure).

그의 명성은 이미 정점에 도달해 있었다.

His fame had already reached its peak.

정점 (peak/zenith) + 에 도달하다 (to reach).

그는 부당한 방법으로 명성을 얻으려다가 결국 망신을 당했다.

He tried to gain fame through unfair methods but ended up being humiliated.

망신을 당하다 (to be humiliated/disgraced).

그 철학자의 명성은 사후에야 비로소 정당한 평가를 받기 시작했다.

The philosopher's fame only began to receive proper evaluation after his death.

사후에야 비로소 (only after death).

그는 세속적인 명성을 뒤로하고 산속에서 은둔 생활을 시작했다.

Leaving worldly fame behind, he began a life of seclusion in the mountains.

세속적인 (worldly) + 은둔 (seclusion).

그의 명성은 이미 국경을 넘어 전 인류의 자산이 되었다.

His fame has already crossed borders and become an asset to all humanity.

국경을 넘다 (to cross borders).

명성이란 뜬구름과 같아서 언제 사라질지 모르는 법이다.

Fame is like a floating cloud, so one never knows when it might disappear.

-는 법이다 (it is the law/nature of things).

그는 학문적 명성을 쌓기 위해 수십 년간 고독한 연구를 지속했다.

He continued solitary research for decades to build academic renown.

학문적 (academic) + 고독한 (lonely/solitary).

그의 명성은 단순한 인지도를 넘어 하나의 상징이 되었다.

His fame went beyond simple recognition and became a symbol.

인지도 (degree of recognition).

그는 자신의 명성을 이용해 사회적 약자들을 돕는 데 앞장섰다.

He took the lead in helping the socially vulnerable by using his fame.

앞장서다 (to take the lead).

그의 명성은 동시대인들에게 지대한 영향을 미쳤다.

His fame had a profound influence on his contemporaries.

지대한 영향을 미치다 (to have a profound influence).

명성의 덧없음을 깨달은 그는 모든 명예를 내려놓고 고향으로 돌아갔다.

Realizing the futility of fame, he laid down all honors and returned to his hometown.

덧없음 (futility/transience).

그의 명성은 후대에 이르러 더욱 공고해졌으며, 역사적 인물로 각인되었다.

His fame became even more solid in later generations, and he was engraved as a historical figure.

공고해지다 (to become solid/firm).

그는 명성이 가져다주는 화려함 뒤에 숨겨진 고독과 싸워야 했다.

He had to fight the loneliness hidden behind the splendor that fame brings.

화려함 (splendor/glamour).

그의 명성은 당대의 정치적 상황과 맞물려 복합적인 양상을 띠었다.

His fame took on a complex aspect in conjunction with the political situation of the time.

맞물리다 (to be interlocked/conjoined).

그는 명성을 쫓는 허영심을 경계하며 늘 겸손한 자세를 유지했다.

He was wary of the vanity of chasing fame and always maintained a humble attitude.

경계하다 (to be wary of/watch out for).

그의 명성은 단순한 개인의 성취를 넘어 시대의 정신을 대변했다.

His fame went beyond simple individual achievement and represented the spirit of the times.

대변하다 (to represent/speak for).

그는 명성이란 대중의 변덕에 의해 언제든 뒤바뀔 수 있는 것임을 알고 있었다.

He knew that fame is something that can be reversed at any time by the whims of the public.

변덕 (whim/caprice).

그의 명성은 그의 사상적 깊이와 인격적 고결함에서 비롯된 것이었다.

His fame stemmed from the depth of his thought and the integrity of his character.

~에서 비롯되다 (to stem from/originate from).

Synonyms

평판 이름값 인지도 유명세

Antonyms

악명 무명

Common Collocations

명성을 얻다

명성이 자자하다

명성을 쌓다

명성을 떨치다

명성에 걸맞다

명성을 더럽히다

명성을 잃다

명성을 날리다

명성을 유지하다

명성을 쫓다

Common Phrases

세계적인 명성

— World-wide fame or renown. Used for global achievements.

그는 세계적인 명성을 가진 피아니스트이다.

가문의 명성

— The reputation or honor of a family lineage. Common in dramas.

그는 가문의 명성을 이어받아 정치가가 되었다.

학문적 명성

— Academic renown based on research and scholarship.

교수님은 학문적 명성이 매우 높으십니다.

자자한 명성

— Widespread fame that is talked about by many.

그의 자자한 명성을 듣고 멀리서 찾아왔다.

일시적인 명성

— Temporary or fleeting fame. Often contrasted with true value.

그는 일시적인 명성보다는 내면의 평화를 원했다.

명성을 구가하다

— To enjoy high fame or to be at the peak of one's renown.

그는 90년대에 최고의 명성을 구가했다.

명성에 먹칠을 하다

— To bring disgrace to a reputation. Literally 'to smear ink.'

그의 범죄는 학교의 명성에 먹칠을 했다.

명성을 회복하다

— To restore one's fame after a period of decline or disgrace.

그는 재기전을 통해 옛 명성을 회복했다.

명성이 드높다

— To have a very high and grand reputation.

그 사찰은 역사가 깊고 명성이 드높다.

명성을 탐하다

— To covet or greedily desire fame.

그는 명성을 탐하는 사람이 아니었다.

Often Confused With

명성 vs 인기

Popularity is being liked by many; renown is being respected for excellence.

명성 vs 평판

Reputation can be good or bad; fame (명성) is usually positive.

명성 vs 명예

Honor is internal/moral; fame (명성) is public recognition.

Idioms & Expressions

"명성이 자자하다"

— To be very famous; for one's reputation to be on everyone's lips.

그 의사의 실력은 서울 바닥에 명성이 자자하다.

Neutral/Formal

"이름을 날리다"

— To make a name for oneself; to become famous.

그는 젊은 나이에 이미 화가로 이름을 날리고 있다.

Neutral

"명성에 먹칠을 하다"

— To tarnish or stain one's reputation.

한 번의 실수가 그의 명성에 먹칠을 했다.

Neutral/Formal

"허명(虛名)뿐이다"

— To have a hollow fame; famous but lacking substance.

그 가수는 실력은 없고 허명뿐이다.

Formal/Critical

"이름값을 하다"

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

그 배우는 이번 영화에서도 이름값을 톡톡히 했다.

Neutral

"명불허전 (名不虛傳)"

— A reputation that is not earned in vain; truly worthy of its fame.

그의 요리는 명불허전이었다.

Formal/Idiomatic

"세상에 이름을 떨치다"

— To make one's name known to the whole world.

그는 올림픽에서 금메달을 따며 세상에 이름을 떨쳤다.

Literary

"명성을 등에 업다"

— To use one's existing fame as a support or advantage.

그는 부모님의 명성을 등에 업고 쉽게 데뷔했다.

Neutral/Critical

"이름이 아깝다"

— One's behavior is so bad that it wastes their good name.

그런 짓을 하다니 그의 이름이 아깝다.

Neutral

"호랑이는 죽어서 가죽을 남기고 사람은 죽어서 이름을 남긴다"

— A tiger leaves its skin when it dies, a human leaves their name (fame).

명성을 쌓는 것이 중요한 이유는 이 속담과 같다.

Traditional Proverb

Easily Confused

명성 vs 인기

Both mean people know you.

인기 is about being liked/trendy (fans); 명성 is about respect/achievement (prestige).

아이돌은 인기가 많고, 학자는 명성이 높다.

명성 vs 악명

Both mean 'fame.'

명성 is positive (renown); 악명 is negative (notoriety/infamy).

그는 범죄자로 악명이 높다.

명성 vs 유명세

Sounds like 'fame.'

유명세 is the 'cost' or burden of being famous, not the fame itself.

유명세 때문에 밖을 나갈 수 없다.

명성 vs 명망

Both mean prestige.

명망 includes a sense of 'expectation' and 'trust' from the public, often used for leaders.

그는 덕망 있는 명망가이다.

명성 vs 소문

Both involve people talking.

소문 is rumor/unverified news; 명성 is established public recognition.

그의 명성은 헛소문이 아니었다.

Sentence Patterns

N은/는 명성이 있어요.

이 학교는 명성이 있어요.

N으로 명성을 얻다.

그는 요리로 명성을 얻었다.

N의 명성이 자자하다.

그의 명성이 자자하다.

명성에 걸맞은 N.

명성에 걸맞은 실력.

명성을 쌓아 올리다.

오랜 시간 명성을 쌓아 올렸다.

명성을 뒤로하고 V.

명성을 뒤로하고 떠났다.

명성에 먹칠을 하다.

가문의 명성에 먹칠을 했다.

명성의 덧없음.

그는 명성의 덧없음을 느꼈다.

Word Family

Nouns

명예 (Honor)

명망 (Prestige)

유명세 (Price of fame)

악명 (Notoriety)

무명 (Anonymity)

명물 (Famous product/person)

Verbs

유명하다 (To be famous)

명성을 떨치다 (To spread fame)

이름나다 (To become well-known)

Adjectives

명성 높은 (Highly renowned)

유명한 (Famous)

저명한 (Eminent/Prominent)

How to Use It

frequency

High in formal writing, news, and literature; moderate in daily conversation.

Common Mistakes

Using '명성' for a popular song. → 그 노래는 인기가 많아요.
Songs have '인기' (popularity). People or institutions have '명성' (renown).
Saying '나쁜 명성' (bad fame). → 그는 악명이 높아요.
'명성' is inherently positive. For negative fame, use '악명' (notoriety).
Using '명성' to mean 'news' or 'rumor'. → 그의 소식을 들었어요.
'명성' is the reputation itself, not the news or information about someone.
Confusing '명성' with '유명세'. → 유명세 때문에 힘들어요.
'유명세' is the negative 'tax' of fame. '명성' is the positive glory.
Using '명성' for a small child's achievement. → 아이가 칭찬을 받았어요.
'명성' is too grand for minor or childhood achievements; it implies a heavy, public weight.

Tips

Verb Pairing

Always try to pair '명성' with '얻다' (gain) or '쌓다' (build). These are the most natural combinations for learners.

Formality

Use '명성' in essays or formal speeches to sound more educated and respectful.

Not Popularity

Remember that '인기' is for being liked, '명성' is for being respected. Don't mix them up!

Must-Know Phrase

Memorize '명성이 자자하다.' It's a high-level way to say someone is very famous for their talent.

Negative Fame

Never use '명성' for a villain or a bad person. Use '악명' (ak-myeong) instead.

Root Meaning

Thinking of '명성' as the 'Sound of a Name' helps you remember it's about what people are saying about you.

Family Honor

In Korea, fame often belongs to the family, not just the individual. Keep this in mind when reading literature.

Elevation

If you want to praise a company in a cover letter, use '명성' to describe their standing in the industry.

News Cues

When you hear '명성' on the news, it's usually followed by a discussion of a major achievement or a major scandal.

Prestige

If '명성' feels too common, try '명망' (myeong-mang) for an even more prestigious feel.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Imagine your NAME (명) being shouted so loud it makes a SOUND (성) that everyone can hear. Myeong-Seong!

Visual Association

Visualize a golden trophy with a megaphone next to it, broadcasting a person's name across a map.

Word Web

명예 (Honor) 성공 (Success) 유명 (Famous) 평판 (Reputation) 인기 (Popularity) 역사 (History) 가문 (Family) 존경 (Respect)

Challenge

Try to write three sentences about a famous person you admire using '명성' and '얻다', '쌓다', and '자자하다'.

Word Origin

Derived from Sino-Korean (Hanja) roots. 명성 consists of two characters that describe the auditory nature of fame in ancient times.

Original meaning: 명 (名) means 'name' or 'title,' and 성 (聲) means 'sound,' 'voice,' or 'noise.' Together, they mean 'the sound of one's name' spreading like a voice.

Sino-Korean (Hanja-eo)

Cultural Context

Be careful not to use '명성' for criminals or controversial figures; use '악명' (notoriety) instead to avoid sounding like you admire them.

In English, 'fame' can sometimes have a neutral or even negative connotation (e.g., 'fame-hungry'). In Korean, '명성' is almost strictly positive and prestigious.

명성황후 (Empress Myeongseong) - The last empress of Korea, whose name literally means 'Bright and Renowned Empress.' 명불허전 (Myeong-bul-heo-jeon) - A popular K-drama title and idiom meaning 'a reputation not earned in vain.' The 'Myeong-seong' Church in Seoul, one of the largest Presbyterian churches in the world.

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Professional Achievements

학계에서의 명성
전문가로서의 명성
명성을 쌓아 올리다
명성을 공고히 하다

Historical Legacies

역사적인 명성
조상들의 명성
명성을 계승하다
명성을 드높이다

Business and Branding

브랜드의 명성
기업의 대외적 명성
명성에 타격을 입다
명성을 회복하다

Arts and Culture

문학적 명성
예술가로서의 명성
세계적인 명성을 얻다
명성이 자자한 작품

Ethics and Character

고결한 명성
명성을 더럽히다
명성에 먹칠을 하다
명성을 지키다

Conversation Starters

"당신이 가장 존경하는 인물의 명성은 어디에서 비롯되었다고 생각하시나요?"

"유명세와 명성의 차이점은 무엇이라고 생각하시나요?"

"한번 잃어버린 명성을 다시 회복하는 것이 가능할까요?"

"가문의 명성을 지키는 것이 현대 사회에서도 중요할까요?"

"명성을 얻는 것보다 유지하는 것이 더 어렵다는 말에 동의하시나요?"

Journal Prompts

당신은 어떤 분야에서 명성을 얻고 싶나요? 그 이유는 무엇인가요? (In what field do you want to gain fame? Why?)

명성이 자자한 장소를 방문했을 때, 기대에 부응했나요? 아니면 실망했나요? (When you visited a renowned place, did it meet expectations or disappoint?)

명성과 행복의 관계에 대해 자신의 생각을 서술해 보세요. (Describe your thoughts on the relationship between fame and happiness.)

잘못된 행동으로 명성을 잃은 인물의 사례를 통해 우리가 배울 점은 무엇인가요? (What can we learn from cases of people who lost their fame due to wrong actions?)

당신이 생각하는 '진정한 명성'의 정의는 무엇인가요? (What is your definition of 'true renown'?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

It is technically understandable, but it sounds unnatural. For a bad reputation, Koreans use '평판이 나쁘다' or the specific word '악명이 높다' (notorious).

Generally, no. '인기' (popularity) is used for idols. '명성' might be used for a legendary singer who has been respected for decades, like Cho Yong-pil.

명예 is 'honor' or 'dignity' (often personal or moral). 명성 is 'fame' or 'renown' (public recognition). You can have honor without being famous.

You should use the phrase '세계적인 명성' (world-class renown) or '전 세계에 명성을 떨치다' (to spread fame across the world).

Yes, it comes from 名 (Name) and 聲 (Sound/Voice). It literally means the sound of your name being heard everywhere.

Yes, it can be used for institutions like universities, hospitals, or even high-end products that have a long-standing prestige.

It is a standard idiomatic expression. It can be used in both polite conversation and formal writing.

It means to tarnish a reputation. '먹칠' is the act of smearing black ink, metaphorically staining a clean name.

It is very common in news, books, and formal situations, but you won't hear it much in casual slang among teenagers.

Only if it is truly legendary and people come from far away to visit it. Otherwise, '유명하다' is more appropriate.

Test Yourself 200 questions

writing

Translate to Korean: 'He gained world-class fame as a scientist.'

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Uses '로서' (as a) and '세계적인 명성을 얻다' (gain world-class fame).