What does Yoon mean and where does it come from?
Yoon (윤) is a common feminine name in South Korea. It can be derived from various hanja characters that influence its meaning. The name is prevalent among Korean females and can also be used as a surname. The first recorded usage of Yoon as a name dates back centuries in Korea, and it continues to b
Cultural significance
Yoon has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Korea-speaking communities, where it reflects values of shine; allow; consent.
Peak popularity
Reached #6840 in 1982 — currently #543 in the US.
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Related Reading
Korea-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Yoon?
Yoon works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Yoon Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Yoon Rose
Floral · soft ending
Yoon Claire
French influence · crisp
Yoon Jane
Literary · strong
Yoon Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Yoon right now?
Holding steady — currently #543 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #543 | 1,657 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #548 | 1,637 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #553 | 1,607 | — |
The story of Yoon
Yoon is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1978. With 109 total births recorded, Yoon remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #553 in 2021 to #543 in 2023. Yoon is used for both genders: 27% female and 73% male.
Names that peaked alongside Yoon in 1982:
Yoon by decade
Yoon peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 6 | |
| 1980s ★ | 41 | |
| 1990s | 37 | |
| 2000s | 11 | |
| 2010s | 14 | |
💎Yoon has only 109 total recorded births since 1978 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Yoon?
What names sound and feel like Yoon?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Yoon also consider these
Common questions about the name Yoon
What does the name Yoon mean?
Yoon means "shine; allow; consent" — a name rooted in Korea tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Yoon?
Yoon is currently ranked #543 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Yoon?
Yoon originates from Korea tradition. Korea names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Yoon?
Yoon is a one-syllable name pronounced Y UW1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Yoon sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Yoon flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Yoon ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.