Translator and author Anton Hur speaks during an event at the National Library of Korea in southern Seoul, Oct. 13, discussing the challenges of publishing Korean literature in English-speaking markets. Courtesy of National Library of Korea

Renowned translator and author Anton Hur featured as the guest at the National Library of Korea's third Meet the Author event this year, delving into the challenges of publishing Korean literature in English-speaking markets.

Held Friday, the event showcased Hur, who gained recognition for his translations of Park Sang-young's "Love in the Big City" and Bora Chung's "Cursed Bunny," both of which earned nominations for the Booker Prize in 2022. In August, he released an essay titled "No One Told Me Not To," in which he recounts his journey as an English translator of Korean literature.

Under the theme of "The tough road to publishing Korean literature in the English-speaking world," Hur began by emphasizing the limited presence of Korean literature in international markets.

"Many foreign readers, to be honest, may not even be aware of Korean literature or the location of Korea itself. Just because BTS and BLACKPINK are global sensations doesn't necessarily mean there's a corresponding interest in Korean literary works," he said.

"This lack of connection leaves 'K-literature' as more of a concept than a reality. The scope for Korean literary offerings in international markets is, as I see it, quite limited."

The translator also pointed out that a lack of support for translators in Korea stems from the perception of translation as an alternative job.

"While many people assume that publishing companies handle the publication of translated books, the reality in the Korean literary world is quite different. Translators often take the lead in getting translated works published. It's our translators' job to establish connections within the overseas publishing industry," he said.

"I don't think I've gained recognition as a translator solely because of my translation skills. Rather, I've reached a position that's hard to replace because I've spent time building networks."

Addressing the topic of artificial intelligence in translation, Hur underscored the irreplaceable value of social ties.

"There's a lot of talk about AI translation, but artificial intelligence can't replicate the importance of personal connections. So I think, 'Wouldn't it be great to receive the essential support we need?'" he said.

Cover of Anton Hur's essay "No One Told Me Not To" / Courtesy of Across Books

After his presentation on the hurdles against translating and publishing, Hur lightened the mood by reading excerpts from his latest book, "No One Told Me Not To," filling the room with laughter through his wit and humor.

Hur also answered questions from the audience, revealing some secrets regarding his translation process.

When discussing his criteria for selecting books to translate, he stated, "I keep it as open as possible, regardless of genre. I seek out exceptional books and avoid the predictable ones. I'm particularly drawn to works that others may not have translated, those that possess a unique quality."

In response to a reader's inquiry about his feelings when nominated for the Booker Prize, Hur shared a humbling perspective.

"When I became a finalist, neither the author nor I had any specific expectations. I called the author to let her know, and I could hear the author sighing on the phone out of burden. In the future, I hope that younger writers and translators who undertake essential work can replace me," he said.

Closing the event, Hur noted that the recent recognition of Korean literature is not a result of state support but a collective effort from a handful of dedicated translators.

"People in our country may believe that 'Korean literature is great!' upon learning of my Booker Prize nomination. However, I believe this achievement wasn't due to state support but rather the collective effort of myself and a few other Korean translators," he said.

"About the criticisms, some raise about my emphasizing financial matters, it is with no doubt that money indeed plays a pivotal role in the translator society. This sentiment resonates among all Korean translators."