Translating Hollywood: The Limits of Localization

–What issues occur when an English-language film is translated into Korean?

SPEAKER: Elena Chang
DATE: Tuesday. March 8, 2022. 7:30PM (Seoul)
VENUE: Online Zoom

Abstract:

Both linguistically and culturally, English and Korean share little common ground; thus, finely nuanced localization is critical. Confucian teachings permeate Korea even more than China, his birthplace. The Korean language cultivates elaborate honorifics to serve a rigid, hierarchical social structure. For a Korean to become friends with anyone older or younger than himself is inconceivable. But American creative works embrace egalitarian ideals: society functions on a first-name basis. This practice poses a dilemma; must we distort original intent to conform to Korean norms or help expose the audience to cultural diversity? Cases involving film subtitling/dubbing will be examined.

Lecturer’s Bio:

Los Angeles-based Elena Chang is a broadly experienced English<>Korean translator-interpreter (FBI Qualified Core+2 level) as well as a classically trained (MFA, CalArts) actor. In her previous life in Korea, Ms. Chang earned a degree in law from Seoul National University, Korea’s most prestigious educational institution. She held an editorial position with Chosun Ilbo, Korea’s premier newspaper of record, and later worked as a television reporter as she developed her stage acting career.

Elena provides translation/localization, consecutive interpreting, voiceover, copywriting, and directing services. Her proficiency in Korea’s many regional dialects informs her role as a cultural consultant and dialogue coach. Her diverse experience, scholarly bilingual research skills, and solid business ethics make her the preferred Korean language and culture specialist for her many clients in the international entertainment industry and the broader world of business and government.

Elena has prepared several film script translations for lip-sync dubbing in audio-visual localization, such as Olympus Has Fallen, Alex Cross, Life in a Day, and David & Fatima, among others. She also creates subtitles and provides QC services in English and Korean. Recent contributions include Best Fiends Animation shorts, Competition Policy International’s Regulating Online Platforms: A Balanced Approach for South Korea, Adopt a Highway, The Magnificent Seven (60th-anniversary release), Little Women, Jumanji: The Next Level, The King’s Speech, 21 Bridges, Dark Waters, Black, and Blue, How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World, MIB: International, West Side Story (50th anniversary), among many others.

** Zoom Meeting Link:
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Meeting ID: 856 0279 0782
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