Current status of specialized translators in Korea and implications for future needs

It is assumed that there is a considerable gap between the needs of the translation services market and the level of professional translator competence with expertise in the subject matters in Korea. This study aims to examine the current status of Korean translators with subject matter expertise and to identify some major obstacles in their translation practice and training related to the development of specialized translation. For this, a small scale survey among professional translators working in Korea is presented and analyzed to explore the challenges and implications. While the scope of this study is rather limited, it will still be helpful for the advancement of future Korean translation industry by providing an insight into some specific ways in which the industry can be improved.