Korean literary translation in Vietnam

The topics discussed at the workshop included: the general state of literary translation and specifically the translation of Korean literature in Vietnam; the role of translators as a bridge between Korean culture and Vietnam; the translation of Korean literature into Vietnamese - some issues arising from linguistic factors; a survey of translated Korean literature in Vietnam in recent years…

Conference scene/Photo: Thanh Long

Regarding the development of translated Korean literature in Vietnam, reports generally agree that cultural exchange between Vietnam and Korea dates back to the 14th century, but literary translation activities between the two countries began in the mid-20th century. Notably, the translation and introduction of Korean literature in Vietnam only commenced after the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1992. Over the past 22 years, 48 ​​Korean literary works have been translated and published in Vietnam. The content of these books is quite diverse, ranging from Korean folk tales and historical novels to short stories about modern life, children's literature, and research books introducing the history of Korean literature.

Translator Thuy Toan presents her paper "Translation and the Translation of Korean Literature in Vietnam in Recent Years"/Photo: Thanh Long

Overcoming a period of stagnation lasting several decades due to objective reasons, Korean literature translated, published, and introduced in Vietnam is now developing significantly in both quantity and quality. A crucial factor supporting this development is the Korean government's strong commitment to promoting the presence of Korean culture and language throughout Asia and the world, including significant investment in literary translation and support for the publication of Korean literature abroad, with Vietnam being a particularly noteworthy destination. The early 21st century marked the peak of the Korean Wave in Vietnam, with consistent support in translation and publication from Korean cultural organizations such as the Korean Literature Translation Institute, the Daesan Cultural Foundation, and the Korean Cultural Center.

In particular, from 2010 to the present, translated Korean literature in Vietnam has seen a leap forward in development. This is due to a flexible restructuring of the funding for translation and publication, prioritizing contemporary authors and works that are gaining attention in Korean literature. Publishers have focused on widespread promotion and organizing book launches with the presence of authors, and interactions with Vietnamese writers, poets, and readers. As a result, these events have had a positive effect, attracting both readers and the Vietnamese book industry. A new generation of energetic and literature-loving translators has emerged. The translated works are quite skillful and meticulous. Thanks to this, translated Korean literature has entered a new phase: truly and equally penetrating the Vietnamese book market. Korean literature has truly become present and demonstrates its influence in the Vietnamese market.

To further develop the field of Korean literary translation in Vietnam, scholars propose the following: basic training in Korean literary translation in Vietnam; strengthening research and promotion of Korean literature at universities; organizing seminars to exchange ideas on translation; further promoting the formation of a team of translators dedicated to specific book genres; flexibility and up-to-date selection of translated works to maintain a balance between difficult-to-read, academic books and entertainment literature; introducing diverse genres and trends to create a more comprehensive view of the landscape of Korean literature…

Furthermore, Korean cultural organizations need to maintain and strengthen their support for the translation, publication, and promotion of Korean literature in Vietnam; aiming to develop large-scale, systematic translation and publishing projects with cooperation between sponsoring organizations and beneficiary units; and creating dedicated websites to update previously published translated Korean literary works…