Translation that preserves literary essence and connects with global readers
Getting started
When Korean writer Han Kang won the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2024, the role of Korean literature and translation attracted a great deal of attention. Han Kang has addressed universal yet powerful topics such as human existence, violence, and nature through the deep themes and delicate language of contemporary Korean literature, and has resonated with readers around the world. In particular, his masterpieces vegetariansIt has aroused great repercussions in many countries, including the Anglo-American region, through its original narrative dealing with violence and the boundary between self.
The importance of translation
The role of translation was decisive in Han Kang's work gaining worldwide recognition. Translation allows literary works to reach diverse readership across borders, and acts as a bridge for the artist's message to be conveyed around the world. For example, Han Kang's work was widely known internationally as it was translated into English by translator Deborah Smith, and attracted particular attention in the UK, and was honored to win the Man Booker International Award. This is the result of translating Han Kang's works into various languages, and the translation also had an important impact on the possibility of winning the Nobel Prize in Literature. Let's take a look at the role of translation together.
1. Preserving literary essence
A good translation makes use of the style, tone, sensibility, and cultural nuances of the original work to make readers understand the essence of the original work. For example, in the works of Chinese writer Moyen, who won the 2012 Nobel Prize in Literature, translation played an important role in conveying complex social issues and satirical expressions in rural China to Western readers. Translators not only play a role in transferring languages, but also contribute to maintaining the originality of the work by reflecting the artist's unique style.
2. Connect with global readers
Nobel Prize-winning works are widely read in various countries, and readers from all over the world would not be able to access such works without translation. Olga Tokarchuk of Poland, winner of the 2018 Nobel Prize in Literature, was widely known through works translated into English, and without an English translation, there would have been major restrictions on communicating his creative imagination and social critical perspective to Western readers.
3. The role of translation in the Nobel Prize in Literature selection
Translation does more than just introduce a work; it also affects the review process. The Nobel Prize in Literature Committee relies on translations to read the works of writers speaking various languages, which means that the quality of translation has an important influence on the jury's evaluation of the works. Therefore, translators must faithfully convey the mood and meaning of the work, which directly contributes to the award.
As such, translation is a key element connecting readers with global literature through the Nobel Prize in Literature, and the higher the level of translation, the full meaning and artistry of the original work can be conveyed.
The Globalization of Korean Literature and the Role of LETR WORKS.
Achievements such as winning the Nobel Prize in Literature can be achieved more effectively when supported by the efforts of outstanding translators and translation support using data intelligence solutions such as LETR WORKS. Through natural language processing (NLP) technology, LETR WORKS helps translators more accurately analyze the context and meaning of works and optimize translations by utilizing unique literary nuances. This technical support lays the foundation for Korean literature to receive greater recognition overseas, and helps the artist's creative message be conveyed beyond language barriers.
In the end, Han Kang's Nobel Prize in Literature made me realize the power of translation and shows the potential for Korean literature to be recognized on more international stages. This will continue to be an example of the importance of continuous translation and technical support for the globalization of Korean literature
Editor/Choi Min-woo
