Korean literature abroad

       In The Korea Herald Literature Translation Institute of Korea-president Kim Seong-kon considers, yet again, ways of Raising the profile of Korean literature overseas.
       He notes: "my immediate concern is translation" -- and that, apparently:

In the case of English translation of Korean literature, there has been a heated debate on who is the better qualified translator between an American or British translator and a Korean translator. Some people insist that American or British translators are much better than Korean translators because the latter are prone to make mistakes in grammar, syntax and wording, not to mention inadvertently using unstylish sentences and awkward expressions. Others strike back, insisting that Korean translators are better because British and American translators almost always make quite a few mistakes in their translation since they are often unable to comprehend Korean words or phrases and their cultural implications correctly.

       What to do ?

In my experience, both arguments are right. Thus collaboration or cotranslation by two nationals can be a good solution.

       Okay .....
       I'm also not sure pinning hopes on a first wave of: "suspense and mystery" titles to pave the way for 'real' literature is the wisest course of action -- much less the advice that:

Indeed, we should produce literary works that would have strong international appeal. Once the door is open, more serious literature can follow

       Once you start trying to 'produce' a specific kind of literary work -- especially one for a foreign audience (i.e. one that by definition authors are likely to be less familiar with) ... well, that's unlikely to work out well.

       At least more is being published in English -- led by Dalkey Archive Press' Library of Korean Literature.

       See also the Korean literature under review at the complete review.