Roh (name)

Roh, as a surname and given name, primarily originates in Korean and Persian/Iranian cultures, though usage is also found in other regions.

Korean Origin:

• In Korean, "Roh" (노, 盧) is a relatively common surname, transliterated from the Hanja character meaning "reed" or "lodge." It is typically Romanized as "Roh" but may sometimes appear as "Noh" depending on the Romanization system used. The surname is associated with several different clans (bon-gwan), each tracing its origins to a specific ancestral location.

Persian/Iranian Origin:

• In Persian (فارسی), "Roh" (روح) translates to "soul" or "spirit." As a given name, it holds spiritual significance and is used for both males and females. While less common as a surname, it can also be found as such.

Distribution and Notable People:

• The distribution of the name "Roh" is largely concentrated in Korea for the surname with the Hanja root. As a given name or surname with Persian/Iranian origins, its distribution aligns with Persian-speaking regions and diasporas.
• Notable people with the Korean surname Roh include Roh Tae-woo and Roh Moo-hyun, both former Presidents of South Korea. The Persian usage, while less represented in Western media, is prevalent within Iranian communities.

Variations and Transliterations:

• Korean: Noh (alternative Romanization)
• Persian: Spelled the same in Persian script (روح), variations arise in pronunciation nuances depending on dialect.