How to Translate Raw Manhwa: A Guide for Aspiring Translators
For fans of Korean webtoons and manhwa, reading raw (untranslated) chapters can be frustrating. But for those who are fluent in Korean and passionate about sharing these stories, translating raw manhwa can be a rewarding experience.
This guide will walk you through the process of translating raw manhwa, from finding sources to polishing your final product.
1. Finding Raw Manhwa Chapters
The first step is finding the raw chapters you want to translate. There are many websites that host raw manhwa, but some popular options include:
- Naver Webtoon: This is the official platform for many Korean webtoons.
- Daum Webtoon: Another popular webtoon platform in Korea.
- Ridibooks: This platform offers a variety of webtoons and manhwa.
- Lezhin Comics: This platform specializes in BL (Boys' Love) webtoons.
2. Understanding the Context
Once you've found the chapters you want to translate, it's important to understand the context. This means reading the chapters carefully and noting:
- Characters: Who are the main characters? What are their relationships like?
- Setting: Where and when does the story take place?
- Plot: What is the main conflict of the story?
This will help you make informed decisions about how to translate specific words and phrases.
3. Translating the Text
Now comes the actual translation process. This involves:
- Choosing a translation style: Do you want a literal translation or a more natural-sounding translation?
- Using a dictionary and online resources: Look up unfamiliar words and phrases.
- Paying attention to nuances: Subtle changes in word choice can significantly affect the meaning of a sentence.
- Ensuring consistency: Use the same translation for recurring words and phrases throughout the story.
4. Editing and Proofreading
Once you've translated the text, it's important to edit and proofread it carefully. This means:
- Checking for grammar and spelling errors.
- Ensuring the translation is clear and concise.
- Verifying that the meaning of the original text has been preserved.
You may want to have another person proofread your work for a fresh perspective.
5. Formatting and Sharing
Finally, you need to format the translation for easy reading and share it with others.
- Choose a format: This could be a text document, an image file, or even a webcomic.
- Include credits: Always credit the original artist and the source of the raw chapters.
- Share your work: Post your translation on websites or forums where other fans can access it.
Tips for Successful Manhwa Translation
- Read the manhwa regularly: This will help you become familiar with the characters, setting, and plot.
- Practice your Korean skills: The more you practice, the better your translations will become.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help: If you're stuck on a particular word or phrase, ask a fellow translator or a Korean speaker for help.
- Have fun! Translating manhwa should be an enjoyable experience.
Translating raw manhwa can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By following these steps and putting in the time and effort, you can help bring these exciting stories to a wider audience.