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Koh Last Name Origin

Introduction

Choosing a name for your child is a significant decision that can have a lasting impact on their identity. Many parents opt for family names that have been passed down through generations, while others prefer unique or trendy names. If you have the Koh last name, you may be curious about its origin and meaning. In this article, we will explore the Koh surname and its fascinating history.

Koh Name Meaning

The Koh last name has its roots in several cultures and languages. In Chinese, Koh (柯) means 'a kind of tree' or 'a branch,' while in Korean, it is written as 고 and means 'high' or 'tall.' In Japanese, Koh is written as 小泉, which means 'small spring.' The Koh surname is also found in Germany, where it is derived from the Old High German word 'koch,' meaning 'cook.'

Geographical Distribution

The Koh last name is most commonly found in Asia, particularly in China, Korea, and Japan. According to Forebears, a genealogy website, there are approximately 1.2 million people with the Koh surname worldwide, making it the 1,056th most common surname globally. In the United States, the Koh surname is most prevalent in California, followed by New York and Texas.

Notable People with the Koh Last Name

There are several notable people who bear the Koh last name, including:

Koh Boon Hwee

Koh Boon Hwee is a Singaporean businessman and philanthropist. He is the former chairman of DBS Bank and Singapore Airlines and is currently the chairman of Credence Partners, a private equity firm. Koh Boon Hwee has been recognized for his contributions to the business community and was awarded the Public Service Star in 1999.

Koh Seow Chuan

Koh Seow Chuan is a Singaporean artist and educator. He is known for his watercolor paintings of Singapore's landscapes and architecture and has exhibited his works in various countries, including Japan, China, and the United States. Koh Seow Chuan is also a former president of the Singapore Watercolor Society and has received numerous awards for his artistic achievements.

Koh Dong-jin

Koh Dong-jin is a South Korean businessman and the president of Samsung Electronics' mobile division. He is credited with leading the development of Samsung's flagship smartphones, including the Galaxy S and Note series. Koh Dong-jin has also been involved in Samsung's efforts to expand its presence in the global smartphone market.

Researching Your Koh Family History and Genealogy

If you are interested in learning more about your Koh family history and genealogy, there are several resources available to you. Here are some tips to get started:

1. Start with What You Know

The first step in researching your family history is to gather as much information as possible from your relatives. Talk to your parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles and ask them about their parents, grandparents, and other ancestors. Record their names, birth and death dates, and any other details they can provide, such as where they lived and what they did for a living.

2. Search Online Databases

There are several online databases that can help you trace your family history, including Ancestry.com, FamilySearch.org, and MyHeritage.com. These websites allow you to search for records such as birth, marriage, and death certificates, census records, and immigration records. Some of these websites require a subscription fee, while others offer free access to certain records.

3. Visit Local Libraries and Archives

Local libraries and archives can be a valuable resource for genealogical research. Many libraries have collections of local history books, newspapers, and other documents that can provide information about your ancestors. Archives may also have records such as wills, deeds, and court documents that can shed light on your family history.

4. Join a Genealogy Society

Joining a genealogy society can connect you with other researchers who share your interests and can provide guidance and support. Many genealogy societies offer workshops, lectures, and other events that can help you learn more about genealogical research and connect with other researchers.

Conclusion

The Koh last name has a rich history and is found in several cultures and languages. Whether you are interested in learning more about your Koh family history or simply curious about the meaning of your last name, there are many resources available to help you explore your genealogy. By gathering information from your relatives, searching online databases, visiting local libraries and archives, and joining a genealogy society, you can uncover the stories and connections that make up your family history.