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Last Name Bae

What is the origin of the last name Bae?

The last name "Bae" originates from Korea. It is a common Korean surname that is derived from the Chinese character 裵, which means "white" or "pure". The name is believed to have originated from the ancient Goguryeo and Shilla dynasties in Korea. Today, it is one of the most common surnames in South Korea.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Bae

The meaning and origin of the last name Bae

Bae is a Korean surname that also means 'pear' in Korean, symbolizing longevity and fertility. It is one of the most common surnames in Korea, shared by roughly three percent of the population. The origins of the Bae surname can be traced back to the ancient Korean Goryeo dynasty, with some Bae clans claiming descent from the ruling class of that time. The surname may also have originated from the Chinese character 'pei', meaning 'marsh' or 'swamp'. Over time, the Bae surname spread through migration and intermarriage, and is now found in various parts of the world due to the Korean diaspora. It is a unique and distinguished surname that carries a rich cultural heritage and history within the Korean community.

Geographical distribution of the last name Bae

The last name Bae is of Korean origin and is fairly common in South Korea. It is predominantly found in the southern regions of the country, particularly in the provinces of Jeolla and Gyeongsang. Additionally, due to the Korean diaspora, the surname Bae can also be found in other parts of the world, including the United States, Canada, and Australia, where Korean immigrants have settled. In these countries, the distribution of the last name Bae is more dispersed, with concentrations in major urban areas with larger Korean populations, such as Los Angeles, New York City, and Sydney. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Bae reflects the migration patterns of Koreans both within South Korea and abroad.

Variants and spellings of the last name Bae

Bae is a Korean last name that can be spelled in various ways, including Pae, Pai, and Pei. These variations may stem from different romanization systems used for the Korean language. Additionally, in some cases, the last name may be spelled as Bay or Bai, which could be the result of transliteration or different regional dialects. Other potential variations of the last name Bae could include Bey, Baek, or Baik, as the pronunciation of the name can vary depending on the individual or region. Overall, the last name Bae has several possible spellings and variations due to factors such as pronunciation, romanization, and regional influences.

Famous people with the last name Bae

One famous person with the last name Bae is Kris Bae, a South Korean actress known for her roles in popular television dramas and films. She gained widespread recognition for her portrayal of strong, independent female characters and quickly became one of the most sought-after actresses in the industry. Another well-known figure with the last name Bae is Minhyuk Bae, a professional baseball player from South Korea who has achieved great success as a pitcher for his team. With a combination of talent, hard work, and dedication, both Kris and Minhyuk Bae have become respected and admired figures in their respective fields, earning a loyal fan base and critical acclaim for their performances.

Genealogical research on the last name Bae

The last name Bae is of Korean origin and is derived from the Korean word for pear. The Bae surname is one of the most common in Korea, with historical records dating back to the Goryeo dynasty in the 10th century. The Bae clan was a prominent family during the Joseon dynasty, with many members holding prestigious positions in government and society. Over time, the Bae surname has spread to other countries as Korean immigrants have settled around the world. Genealogical research on the Bae last name often reveals a rich history of cultural and social significance within the Korean community. Today, individuals with the surname Bae can be found in various professions and industries, continuing to carry on the legacy of their ancestors.

Last name distribution maps

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Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 11 June 2025

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