"박" is a common Korean surname and can also refer to a traditional Korean wooden drum called a 북. The surname is prevalent in Korea and has various meanings depending on the Hanja characters used. In addition to being a surname, "박" can denote a type of gourd or squash, known as 호박. This vegetable is often used in Korean cuisine, particularly in dishes like 호박전, a savory pancake made with grated squash.