Summary

Yi is a surname of Chinese origin. It is one of the most ancient and prominent surnames in China, with a history dating back thousands of years. The Yi surname is widely spread across different regions of China and is associated with various historical and cultural significances.
There are
17934
Yis in the USA
Yi is the
2011st
most common last name in the USA

Historical figures and celebrities called Yi

YiSun-sin

Yi Sun-sin was a Korean admiral and military general who is considered one of the greatest naval commanders in history. He is known for his victories against the Japanese navy during the Imjin War in the late 16th century.

YiHwang

Yi Hwang, also known as Toegye, was a Korean Confucian scholar and philosopher who played a significant role in the Joseon Dynasty. He is known for his writings on Neo-Confucianism and his emphasis on self-cultivation.

YiIn-seong

Yi In-seong is a professional Go player from South Korea. He has won numerous titles and is known for his strategic and creative style of play.

YiXiaocuo

Yi Xiaocuo is a Chinese painter known for his traditional Chinese landscape paintings. His works often depict serene landscapes and natural scenery.

YiSo-yeon

Yi So-yeon is a South Korean scientist and astronaut. She became the first Korean to travel to space in 2008 as part of the Soyuz TMA-12 mission.

YiMun-yol

Yi Mun-yol is a South Korean writer known for his novels and short stories. He has won numerous literary awards and his works often explore themes of Korean history and identity.

YiKwang-su

Yi Kwang-su was a Korean writer and activist who played a significant role in the Korean Enlightenment Movement. He is known for his novel 'The Heartless,' which criticized Confucian traditions and advocated for modernization.

YiJun

Yi Jun was a Korean independence activist who fought against Japanese colonial rule. He is known for his efforts to establish diplomatic relations between Korea and the United States.

YiByeongdo

Yi Byeongdo is a South Korean film director. He is known for his visually stunning and poetic films, which often explore existential themes.

YiSiling

Yi Siling is a Chinese sport shooter who has won multiple gold medals in international competitions, including the Olympic Games.

Yi Genealogy

OriginsThe surname 'Yi' is of Chinese and Korean origin. In Chinese, it is derived from the word meaning 'justice' or 'righteousness.' In Korean, it is derived from the word meaning 'will' or 'intention.'
Geographic DistributionThe surname 'Yi' is widely distributed in China and South Korea, reflecting the large populations of these countries.
VariationsVariations of the surname 'Yi' include 'Li' in Chinese and 'Lee' or 'Rhee' in Korean.
Migration and ImmigrationThe name 'Yi' has been carried by immigrants from China and South Korea to various countries, especially during periods of political and economic migration.