Origin and meaning of the name Seol-ah

The given name Seol-ah is of Korean origin. It can be translated to English as "Moon" or "Moonlight." In Korean, the character 서 (Seo) means "west," and the character 라 (Ra) can mean "ara" or "oh." However, in this context, 라 is often used as a suffix for female given names and represents "beauty" or "brightness." The two characters combined create the name Seol-ah.

Learn more about the origin of the name Seol-ah

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Seol-ah

The name Seol-ah is a Korean given name that has its origins in the Korean language. It consists of two characters: "Seol" which means "snow," and "Ah" which can represent various meanings such as "grace," "wisdom," or "bright." As a combination, Seol-ah signifies "snow grace" or "snow wisdom." The name reflects the beauty and purity associated with snow and carries connotations of elegance, intelligence, and freshness. It is a common Korean female name, particularly among people born in the late 20th century. In a broader cultural context, Seol-ah's name can be seen as embodying the traditional Korean values of harmony, politeness, and simplicity.

Character traits associated with the name Seol-ah

Seol-ah is often characterized by a strong sense of determination and resilience. Her adaptability allows her to thrive in various environments and situations, making her a versatile individual. She demonstrates empathy and compassion towards others, displaying a nurturing nature that draws people closer to her. Seol-ah possesses an innate curiosity and intellectual prowess, continually seeking knowledge and understanding. Her creativity and innovative thinking enable her to approach problems from unique perspectives. Additionally, she values integrity and honesty, adhering to ethical standards in all aspects of her life. These qualities make Seol-ah a respected and trusted individual, inspiring those around her with her unwavering spirit and passion for growth.

Popularity of the name Seol-ah

The first name Seol-ah (설아) is a common Korean female given name, derived from the Sino-Korean characters 雪娥, which translates to "snow maiden." It has gained popularity in South Korea due to its elegant and graceful connotations associated with snow. According to data from the Statistics Korea, Seol-ah ranked as the 143rd most popular name for newborn girls in South Korea in 2020, indicating a relatively high frequency of usage. The popularity of the name can be attributed to its traditional roots combined with a modern and refined image, making it an attractive choice for Korean parents seeking names that embody both elegance and strength for their daughters. In addition, various famous celebrities, athletes, and artists bearing the name Seol-ah have contributed to its widespread recognition within South Korea and beyond.

Famous people with the name Seol-ah

Seo-ah is a relatively uncommon first name, but it has been borne by several notable figures across various fields. One of the most prominent is Seo-ah Lee, a South Korean actress and model who gained popularity for her roles in television dramas such as "My Girlfriend Is a Gumiho" and "The Great Seer." Another well-known figure is Seo-ah Sim, a Canadian architect born to Korean parents. She co-founded the architecture firm KPMB Architects, which has been recognized with numerous awards for its innovative designs. In literature, there is Yi Seo-ah, a renowned Korean poet and scholar who lived during the late Goryeo Dynasty. Her works are still studied today, showcasing her impact on Korean literature. Despite their different paths, all these women share a name that has been carried with distinction across generations and continents.

Variations of the name Seol-ah

The Korean name Seol-ah (설아) has several variations due to differences in transcription systems and regional dialects. Here are some examples:

1. Sul-ah (슬아): This is an alternative Romanization for the same name, following the Revised Romanization of Korean.
2. Seul-ah (슜아): Another variation, also using the Revised Romanization.
3. Seol Ae (설 애): This version separates the given name and surname, which is common in older or more formal contexts. In English, it would be written as "Seol Ae" with a space between the name parts.
4. Seol-ae (설애): This is another way to write the separated form, using the Hangul unspace instead of a space.
5. Soo-ra (수라) or Su-ra (수라): These are alternative names that have similar pronunciation and meaning to Seol-ah, although they may not be exactly the same person. The characters for these names can also be transcribed as "Soo-la" or "Suu-ra" in English.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the first name "seol-ah"
• Global distribution of the first name on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated : 15 June 2025

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