PanJae

PanJae is a Korean name that can be written with various Hanja characters and is occasionally used as either a family name or a given name. The specific meaning of the name depends on the Hanja selected; typical characters may convey notions of peace, brightness, or a particular regional reference. Because the name is relatively uncommon, it appears predominantly in historical records or toponymic references rather than in contemporary popular culture.

In geography, places referred to as “PanJae” have been documented in provincial archives from the Joseon era. These locations were often small villages or strategic fortifications situated on hills (“pan” meaning plateau or board and “jae” reflecting a dwelling or manufactory). Modern maps rarely show a contemporary settlement named PanJae, suggesting that the name has either been absorbed into larger municipal entities or has fallen out of official use.

Notable individuals bearing the name appear primarily in genealogical sources. For example, a 19th‑century magistrate of a coastal district was recorded under the surname PanJae, and a 20th‑century scholar who specialized in Korean traditional music occasionally published papers under the pen name PanJae. No single public figure dominates the name’s visibility, however, and most references in public records treat it as a historical or obscure personal identifier rather than a brand or institution.