In Korean culture, a 성 (surname) is an essential part of a person's name, typically appearing first. Most Korean surnames are one syllable and are derived from historical clans or regions. Common surnames include 김 (Kim), 이 (Lee), and 박 (Park), which are shared by millions of people in Korea. Korean surnames often reflect lineage and ancestry, with many families tracing their roots back to specific 성씨 (clan names). The use of surnames helps maintain family heritage and identity, playing a significant role in social interactions and cultural traditions in Korea.