Kosta Protić (1831–1892) was the first Serbian General and Chief of the Serbian General Staff. He played a pivotal role during the Herzegovinian Uprising in 1875, being sent to Russia to explore the potential for a war loan. Through his interactions with influential figures in Saint Petersburg, including the Empress Maria Alexandrovna and the future Alexander III of Russia, Protić garnered support for the Serbs of Bosnia and Herzegovina. He served as a military officer in the Serbian-Ottoman War (1876-1877) and the Russo-Turkish War (1877–78), later becoming the Chief of the Serbian General Staff during the latter conflict. Additionally, he briefly held the position of Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Serbia in 1889. Following the abdication of King Milan, Protić was appointed to a Regency council for the underage Alexander I until his passing. Throughout his distinguished career, he received numerous honors and awards, including the Domestic Order of the White Eagle and the Order of the Cross of Takovo with swords. Protić's legacy as a military leader and statesman continues to be remembered and celebrated.

Kosta Vojinović, also known as Kosovac, was a revered Serbian soldier who played significant roles in the Balkan Wars and World War I. Born in Smederevo, he hailed from a respected family and received a comprehensive education, including a degree in economics from Vienna University of Business. His involvement in the liberation of the Serb people saw him collaborating with prominent fighters such as Jovan Babunski and Vojislav Tankosić. Vojinović's military career included participation in the First Balkan War and the Toplica Uprising, a national rebellion against the Bulgarian occupation during World War I. Despite the staggering casualties and imprisonments, the uprising persisted, showcasing the resilience and determination of the Serbian population. His remarkable leadership and bravery during these tumultuous times have left an indelible mark on Serbian history. Pešić, Novica, in his book "Kosta Vojinović Kosovac: vojvoda Topličkog ustanka", provides further insights into the life and legacy of this renowned figure.

Kosta is a surname associated with several notable individuals across various fields. Michael Kosta, born in 1979, is a renowned American stand-up comedian known for his witty humor and comedic timing. Nicole Kosta, a Canadian ice hockey player born in 1993, has made significant contributions to the sport with her exceptional skills and dedication. Shiv Prasad Kosta, an Indian space scientist and educationist born in 1931, has been instrumental in advancing space exploration and promoting education in his country. Steve Kosta, a former Australian rugby league footballer born in 1950, has left a lasting impact on the sport with his remarkable athleticism and sportsmanship. Tessa Kosta, an American actress who graced Broadway musicals and operettas, captivated audiences with her talent and stage presence during her career from 1890 to 1981. Zdeněk Košta, a Czech Olympic cyclist who passed away in 2020, represented his country with pride and determination, leaving behind a legacy of sportsmanship and excellence. The Kosta surname is also related to Costa, and these individuals have undoubtedly made significant contributions to their respective fields, leaving a lasting impact on the world.

Konstantin "Kosta" Mandrović, also known as Kosta Mandrović, was a Serbian illustrator, author, and publisher based in Vienna, Austria during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Mandrović, an ethnic Serb, was well-versed in the book trading industry before venturing into the publication of the illustrated magazine "Srpska zora" (1876-1881). His notable works include "Ilustrovana istorija srpskog naroda od najstarijih vremena do proglašenja nove kraljevine: Sa 120 slika i jednom kartom Balkanskog poluostrova" (1885) and "Ilustrovana istorija: srpskog naroda od najstarijih vremena do XIX veka za narod i školu" (1903), both of which left a lasting impact on Serbian literature and historical documentation. Mandrović's contributions have been acknowledged alongside other notable Serbian writers such as Aleksandar Stojachković and have significantly enriched the cultural and literary landscape of the era.

Kosta S. Shahov, also known as Коста С. Шахов, was a prominent Macedonian Bulgarian public figure, journalist, and activist. Born on April 14, 1862, in Ohrid, Ottoman Macedonia, Shahov made significant contributions to the literary and political scene in the region. He graduated in law from Sofia University in 1894 and held positions in the municipality government and the Court of Appeal in Ruse. Shahov played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Young Macedonian Literary Society and was the author of its Statute and Rules. He was also a key figure in the publication of several newspapers, including "Macedonia," "Strannik," "Glas Makedonski," and "Borba za svobodata na Makedonia i Odrinsko." Notably, Shahov's involvement in facilitating the formation of the Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization (IMRO) alongside Ivan Hadzhinikolov and Gotse Delchev underscores his influence in the political landscape. Following his return to Ohrid and appointment as the chairman of the Bulgarian regional commission, Shahov passed away on August 15, 1917. His legacy continues to be remembered for his significant contributions to the cultural and political development of the region.