Culture-specific items in translation: A study on the English subtitle translation of Korean dramas

This thesis examines the best translation techniques for subtitling Korean dramas into English, that balance preserving culture-specific references with audience comprehension. The research considers the significance of cultural preservation and audience comprehension to determine the best-fitting translation technique to achieve a good balance between the two. Four main groups of viewers are identified along with their level of familiarity and interest in Korean culture and language, with the majority valuing the preservation of culture. The study analyses frequently used translation techniques and shows that there is a tendency to favour target-oriented techniques, resulting in the loss of most of the culture-specific items. A case study on the drama Squid Game reveals how target-oriented techniques often fall short in preserving culture-specific items. The paper finds that it is best to use a balanced approach between cultural preservation and audience comprehension, avoiding the...Show moreThis thesis examines the best translation techniques for subtitling Korean dramas into English, that balance preserving culture-specific references with audience comprehension. The research considers the significance of cultural preservation and audience comprehension to determine the best-fitting translation technique to achieve a good balance between the two. Four main groups of viewers are identified along with their level of familiarity and interest in Korean culture and language, with the majority valuing the preservation of culture. The study analyses frequently used translation techniques and shows that there is a tendency to favour target-oriented techniques, resulting in the loss of most of the culture-specific items. A case study on the drama Squid Game reveals how target-oriented techniques often fall short in preserving culture-specific items. The paper finds that it is best to use a balanced approach between cultural preservation and audience comprehension, avoiding the usage of omission, utilizing source-oriented techniques when possible, and supplementing with translator notes for accents and dialects. This balance will ensure that subtitles accurately convey the intended meaning of the dialogue with their cultural nuances whilst simultaneously ensuring audience comprehension.Show less

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Culture-specific items in translation: A study on the English subtitle translation of Korean dramas