한국 번역출판의 발전방안 연구

Abstract

The purpose of this study was twofold; to examine the current status of translation industry and its problems and to suggest policy implications. Data were collected through library researches and expert interviews: library researches examined translation materials published in Korea; expert interviews focused on the critical problems and possible solutions. With regard to the current status, this study showed several features. First, the portion of translation materials was relatively high in terms of volume and sales. Second, translation was heavily skewed toward literature or children books published either in Japanese or in English. Third, the socio-economic rewards of translators were very poor. This study also found several problems chronicle to the industry. First, the spectrum of cultural diversity was very narrow because publishers favored Japanese and English. Second, translators were poorly payed. Third, the practice of pre-paying stamp duty discouraged the translation variety while projecting commercial elements. Finally, the so-called commercialization of industry blocked the development of cultural contents. As the strategies to resolve problems, this study suggests the followings. First, the publishing company is recommended to build friendly relationships with agencies. Second, translation has to expand its territory to a wide spectrum of literature genres and languages. Third, work conditions, as well as job security and pay scale, of translators must be positively reformed. Fourth, special programs through which professional translators are educated have to be institutionalized. Finally, government and relevant organizations have to show ever-lasting concerns toward the growth of translation industry.