In Korean culture, a 성 (surname) is a family name that typically comes before a person's given name. Most Koreans share a limited number of surnames, with the most common being 김 (Kim), 이 (Lee), and 박 (Park). Surnames are an important part of identity and lineage, often indicating family heritage. Korean surnames are usually one syllable, and they are passed down through generations. In traditional practices, the family name reflects the ancestral lineage, and many families trace their roots back to specific clans or regions. This connection to ancestry is significant in Korean society.