Bridging Cultural Gaps: Addressing Translation Issues in Korean Language Expression for Indonesian Learners

Bridging Cultural Gaps: Addressing Translation Issues in Korean Language Expression for Indonesian Learners

Shua Jung¹, Yookyung Ko², Park Kyeongjae³, Somadi Sosrohadi⁴, Fakhreny Fathu Rahman⁵

^1,2,3,4Universitas Nasional Jakarta, Indonesia

⁵Universitas Hasanuddin, Makassar, Indonesia

DOI: https://doi.org/10.51584/IJRIAS.2025.10030001

Received: 11 February 2025; Accepted: 21 February 2025; Published: 25 March 2025

ABSTRACT

This research aims to identify and analyze errors in understanding and translating Korean idiomatic expressions and cultural phrases used in Indonesia, as well as evaluate the misinterpretations or misapplications of these expressions in Indonesian contexts. This research focuses on common errors in translating Korean idioms, which can hinder optimal learning and understanding of the language and culture. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, the research involves the selection of Korean idiomatic expressions that have been widely adopted in Indonesian culture, particularly in the context of Korean language learning and daily interactions. Data were collected from various sources, including textbooks, popular media such as dramas and songs, and interviews with Korean language instructors in Indonesia. The findings highlight several misinterpretations of Korean idioms, such as “손이 크다” (Son-i keuda), which literally means “big hand” but culturally refers to generosity; “눈이 높다” (Nun-i nopda), meaning “high eyes,” describing someone with high standards; and “발이 넓다” (Bal-i neolbda), which translates as “wide feet,” indicating someone with a large social network. These errors occur due to the literal translation of idioms without considering the cultural context, leading to confusion among learners. The study emphasizes the importance of incorporating cultural understanding in translation and teaching practices to enhance the accuracy and depth of language learning. Ultimately, the research underscores the need for a more context-sensitive approach in translating idiomatic expressions to bridge cultural and linguistic gaps between Korean and Indonesian learners.

Keywords: Korean Expression, Indonesian Learner, Language Expression, Translation Issue

INTRODUCTION

The popularity of the Korean language in Indonesia has been steadily increasing alongside the ongoing spread of the Hallyu phenomenon, or the Korean Wave. Through K-Pop music, Korean dramas, and social media content, Korean culture has not only captured the attention of the Indonesian public but has also introduced a variety of expressions rich in cultural nuances. Korean idiomatic expressions, such as 손이 크다 (son-i keuda, “big hand,” meaning generous), 눈이 높다 (nun-i nopda, “high eyes,” meaning having high standards), or 발이 넓다 (bal-i neolbda, “wide feet,” meaning having an extensive social network), have begun to be recognized and used by Korean culture enthusiasts in Indonesia (Yoon & Lee, 2021; Lim, 2020; Lee, 2022; Karubaba et al., 2024). However, the process of adopting and understanding these expressions is not always easy due to the cultural context differences between Korea and Indonesia (Youngsun et al., 2024; Rahman, 2024).

Language expressions are not just a means of communication, but also reflect the way of thinking, values, and culture of the people who use them (Said et al., 2021; Dalyan et al., 2022; Hidayat et al., 2023). When Korean expressions are translated literally without considering cultural context, their meanings often become difficult to understand for learners or the general public who are not familiar with the cultural background (Lee, 2020, Choi & Kim, 2021; Youngsun et al., 2024; Adam et al., 2024). For example, the idiom 죽은 자식 남의 밥그릇 훔친다 (jogeun jasik nam-ui bapgeureut humchinda, “a dead child steals someone else’s bowl”), which in Korean culture refers to dishonesty or inappropriate behavior, can confuse an Indonesian audience without additional explanation. A similar case occurs with the idiom 김치국부터 마신다 (kimchigukbuteo masinda, “drinking kimchi soup first”), which describes someone who jumps to conclusions or acts prematurely (Baek & Song, 2019; Shin, 2021).

The difficulty in understanding these expressions highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity in the process of introducing and learning the Korean language. Misunderstanding the meaning of expressions can hinder learners from grasping the cultural essence embedded in them and reduce appreciation for the richness of Korean culture (Park & Kang, 2019; Kim, 2022; Jung, 2018). Therefore, understanding how Korean expressions are received, adapted, and used in Indonesia becomes a crucial aspect of bridging the linguistic and cultural gap between the two countries.

This study aims to analyze the use and adaptation of Korean expressions in Indonesia, focusing on idioms and phrases with strong cultural backgrounds. Through this approach, the research hopes to provide insights into how Korean expressions can be more effectively understood in Indonesia and explore their role in strengthening cultural relations between the two countries. Additionally, the results of this research may offer recommendations for teachers, translators, or Korean culture enthusiasts on how to understand and use these expressions contextually, thus supporting a deeper learning of the Korean language and culture.

LITERATURE REVIEW

Research on the translation of Korean language textbooks in Indonesia, particularly concerning errors in translating idioms or cultural terms and contextual errors, has become an interesting topic to explore.

Dynamic Equivalence Theory by Nida (1964)

The Dynamic Equivalence Theory was proposed by Eugene Nida in 1964 in his book Toward a Science of Translating. This theory emphasizes that translation should produce the same effect on the target audience as intended by the original text. Nida argued that the primary goal of translation is to ensure that the message from the source text is understood by the reader or listener in the most natural and appropriate way in the target language, not only by emphasizing fidelity to sentence structure or words, but also considering contextual and cultural meaning.

According to Nida (1964), translators must focus on accurately transferring meaning, which includes not just linguistic aspects but also being relevant to the social and cultural context of the target audience. In the translation process, translators must consider factors such as cultural norms, social customs, and the contextual understanding of the reader, ensuring that the message is still comprehensible and well-received by the target audience.

Contextual errors can occur if the translator does not take the Indonesian audience into account. For instance, if the translator chooses technical terms or expressions that are rarely used in Indonesia, it can lead to confusion. Therefore, translators need to be more cautious in selecting equivalent terms that align with commonly understood Indonesian language usage. If there are technical terms that are difficult to understand, the translator could provide additional explanations or footnotes to clarify the meaning and broader context. Thus, translation that considers dynamic equivalence will ensure that the message from the original text is understood naturally by Indonesian readers, in accordance with their social and cultural context.

Contextual Errors in Translation

Contextual errors are also a common issue found in the translation of Korean language textbooks. A study by Baker (1992) shows that translation must consider the teaching context and the target audience to make the learning material more relevant and understandable. Errors occur when the translation is not tailored to the needs and characteristics of the target language learners. For example, technical terms or expressions commonly used in Korean may not have a precise equivalent in Indonesian, or may even lead to confusion if not adapted to Indonesian curriculum standards (Liu & Zhang, 2016). Translators who overlook this context risk creating a gap between the material being taught and the learners’ abilities and understanding, thus reducing the effectiveness of learning.

Previous studies have informed that cultural mismatches often occur when idioms or terms that have specific meanings in the source language are translated without considering the underlying cultural context. Nida (1964), in his theory of Dynamic Equivalence, emphasized the importance of considering cultural and social values in translation. In this context, translators must convey the correct meaning even though sometimes the expressions or idioms may not be translatable literally. For example, the Korean idiom 손이 크다 (son-i keuda, “big hands”) meaning “generous” can be confusing if translated literally without adequate explanation of the underlying culture (Kim, 2009). Some previous studies also show that translators often fail to include important cultural explanations in the translation texts, leading to misunderstandings among foreign language learners (Ding, 2015; Liu, 2017).

Furthermore, using the Dynamic Equivalence Theory can help translators produce more relevant and natural translations for the target audience by considering the cultural aspects and specific teaching context. Further research in this area is crucial to ensure that Korean language textbooks in Indonesia can support effective language learning and enhance understanding of Korean culture among students.

Research Objective

The aim of this study is 1) to identify and analyze errors in understanding and translating Korean idioms or cultural expressions used in Indonesia, and 2) to evaluate the misinterpretation or misunderstanding of Korean language expressions in the context of their use in Indonesia. This includes errors in interpreting idioms or idiomatic expressions that are uncommon or incorrect, which may hinder the process of learning and fully understanding the culture.

METHODS

This study uses a descriptive qualitative approach with the aim of identifying and analyzing translation errors of idioms or cultural terms, as well as evaluating contextual errors in Korean language textbooks used in Indonesia. Creswell (2014) stated that descriptive qualitative research is a type of research that aims to provide a deep and comprehensive description of a specific phenomenon or situation. This study relies on data collection from various sources, such as interviews, observations, and documents, with the main focus on understanding, interpreting, and describing the phenomenon being studied. The research method consists of several stages as follows:

Selection of Korean Language Expressions

Korean language expressions, including idioms, idiomatic phrases, or cultural terms commonly used in Indonesia, will be selected as the research subjects. These expressions should encompass various levels of difficulty and relevance, ranging from those commonly found in popular culture to more complex idioms with deep cultural context. The main focus will be on expressions that have been adopted or used by the Indonesian public, either in the context of learning Korean language or in everyday cultural interactions.

Data Collection

Data will be collected through the analysis of various Korean language expressions used in Indonesia, both found in popular media such as dramas, songs, or social media, as well as in Korean language learning interactions in educational institutions. Additionally, interviews with Korean language teachers in Indonesia will be conducted to confirm the challenges faced by students in understanding the meaning and cultural context of these expressions. These interviews will also aim to gain direct insights into how teachers explain idioms and expressions that have cultural nuances that are difficult to translate or understand.

RESULTS

The following analysis will focus on the errors or misinterpretations that may arise when these expressions are adopted in a new cultural context, specifically looking at the translation and contextual application within Indonesian society.

Errors in translating Korean cultural expressions used in Indonesia

If translated literally as “big hand,” its meaning becomes confusing without cultural context. This expression originates from Korean culture, which values generosity, especially in terms of sharing food or gifts.

Errors in understanding the idiom “손이 크다” often occur when translators rely solely on literal translation without considering the cultural dimension. In Korean culture, this idiom reflects a person’s generosity, which is highly valued in Korean society. However, in Indonesia, the translation “big hand” does not have a relevant or logical meaning, causing difficulty for Korean language learners in understanding its essence. This mismatch highlights the need for a deeper understanding of cultural values to ensure accurate and meaningful translations.

If this idiom is translated literally as “high eyes” without additional explanation, readers are likely to have difficulty understanding the actual meaning of the expression. The idiom “눈이 높다” culturally refers to someone who has high standards or expectations, whether in choosing a life partner, items, or other personal preferences. However, a literal translation like “high eyes” not only fails to capture its idiomatic meaning but also feels strange or illogical in the context of the Indonesian language. This is due to the significant cultural differences between Korea and Indonesia, where expressing a similar concept might use a different expression. Therefore, to ensure accurate understanding, the translation of this idiom needs to include contextual adjustments and explanations about its cultural background. This will help Korean language learners in Indonesia grasp not only the meaning of the idiom but also the cultural values underlying it.

If this idiom is literally translated as “wide legs,” the expression not only loses its original meaning but also sounds nonsensical in Indonesian. The idiom “발이 넓다” culturally reflects the value placed on having a wide social network in Korean society, which is seen as an advantage or social asset. This expression is often used to describe someone who has many connections or relationships, both personally and professionally. However, in the context of Indonesian culture, the literal translation like “wide legs” has no relevant or similar cultural association, making it difficult for Korean language learners to understand. This misunderstanding highlights the importance of translation that not only shifts words but also takes into account idiomatic meaning and the underlying cultural values. With a translation approach that considers the cultural context, language learners will be better able to grasp the true essence of the expression and appreciate the social values embedded within it.

If translated literally as “don’t drink the kimchi soup first,” this expression may be difficult for Korean language learners in Indonesia to understand because it lacks clear context. The idiom “김치국부터 마시지 마라” carries a message of caution, advising not to act or hope excessively before something truly materializes. This expression originates from Korean dining traditions, where kimchi soup is typically consumed after the main dish. Therefore, metaphorically, it suggests that one should not rush or jump ahead of the situation. Without an understanding of this cultural background, learners are likely to struggle to grasp the meaning of the idiom if translated literally. Such errors highlight the importance of translation that not only focuses on word-for-word meaning but also considers the cultural context behind it. By understanding the cultural nuances of this idiom, learners will be better able to grasp its meaning and appreciate the message it conveys.

Without cultural explanation, this idiom tends to be difficult for language learners to understand and is often considered as a literal expression without a clear meaning. The idiom “사서 고생한다,” which literally means “buying difficulties,” actually describes someone who deliberately chooses a more difficult path, even though an easier option is available. This expression is often used to criticize people who are overly perfectionistic, too hard on themselves, or choose challenges without a strong reason. However, if translated literally into Indonesian as “membeli kesulitan,” the meaning becomes irrelevant and confusing because it lacks the cultural context. This reflects the significant challenge in translating idioms that are rich with unique cultural dimensions. To convey the intended meaning accurately, translators need to understand the cultural values underlying the expression and adjust the translation to make it relevant to the audience. Therefore, a higher cultural sensitivity is required in the translation process to ensure that the message and the original meaning of the idiom are effectively communicated to learners.

Without an adequate understanding of the cultural context, this expression is often misunderstood as something related to the weather or other natural phenomena. The idiom “바람을 맞다” (literally “blown by the wind”) actually describes an unpleasant social experience, such as being abandoned, ignored, or facing rejection. In Korean culture, this expression is frequently used to describe situations where someone feels disappointed or hurt because promises or expectations were not fulfilled by others, especially in the context of interpersonal relationships. However, when translated literally into Indonesian as “tertiup angin” (blown by the wind), its original meaning is often not conveyed and can be misinterpreted. This translation error highlights the importance of considering the social and cultural context in the translation process. Without taking into account the cultural values and customs that shape the expression, Korean language learners in Indonesia may struggle to understand its true intent. Therefore, it is crucial for translators to adapt this idiom to be more in line with the local cultural context, ensuring that the correct meaning is clearly communicated.

Errors in translating these expressions often occur because translators focus solely on the literal meaning without understanding the Korean cultural values that underpin the formation of the idioms. This expression demonstrates the importance of cultural sensitivity in the translation process so that the meaning and essence of the idiom can be fully understood by the audience.

The Misinterpretation of Korean Expressions in the Context of Their Use in Indonesia

Evaluating the misinterpretation or misunderstanding of Korean expressions in the context of their use in Indonesia involves a thorough process of understanding how idioms or expressions in the Korean language are translated and perceived by Indonesian language learners, as well as how different cultural contexts influence that understanding. Many expressions in Korean have strong cultural roots that reflect the values, social customs, and mindset of Korean society. When these expressions are translated literally without considering the underlying cultural and social context, the true meaning of the expression can become unclear or even change. This becomes a major challenge for Korean language learners in Indonesia who may not share the same understanding of Korean culture. For example, the idiom “손이 크다” (son-i keuda), which is literally translated as “big hands,” actually means that someone is generous or likes to give in large amounts—a concept rooted in the Korean practice of sharing food or gifts. Without an understanding of Korean culture, Indonesian learners might misinterpret the expression as referring to the physical size of the hands, which, of course, does not align with the intended social context.

The process of evaluating this misinterpretation is crucial for providing clearer clarification to Korean language learners in Indonesia. If Korean expressions are only translated literally without adequate explanation or contextualization, it may lead to misinterpretations that cause confusion or even communication errors. Therefore, it is important to introduce learners to the cultural context behind each expression. For example, instead of just translating the expression “눈이 높다” (high eyes) as “high eyes,” which has no direct meaning in Indonesian, the teaching of this idiom should include an explanation that it refers to someone who has high standards or is overly picky, especially when choosing a life partner. Without knowledge of this cultural context, learners may consider the expression irrelevant in their everyday lives.

Thus, evaluating the misunderstanding of these idioms highlights the importance of considering the cultural dimension in the translation and teaching of languages. This not only involves word-for-word translation but also considers how the cultural values and social customs embedded in the original language can be translated in a way that allows the meaning of the expression to be understood in different cultures. With this approach, it is hoped that Korean language learners in Indonesia can better understand the deeper meaning of Korean expressions and use them correctly in everyday communication contexts.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on the findings and discussion, it can be concluded that translating Korean idioms and cultural expressions into Indonesian often faces significant challenges due to the deep cultural differences between the two countries. Translation errors in idioms often occur when translators rely solely on literal translation without considering the idiomatic meaning and the cultural values embedded within them. For example, the idiom “손이 크다” (Son-i keuda), which literally means “big hand,” has a deeper meaning in Korean culture, referring to someone who is generous. Without knowledge of this cultural context, a literal translation will not provide a proper understanding for Korean language learners in Indonesia. A similar situation occurs with other idioms, such as “눈이 높다” (Nun-i nopda) and “발이 넓다” (Bal-i neolbda), which, if translated literally, would cause the meaning to become unclear or even mistaken.

Moreover, this study also highlights the importance of understanding cultural context in the translation process. Many expressions in Korean have strong cultural roots that reflect the social values and mindset of Korean society. When these expressions are translated without considering the cultural background that underlies them, misinterpretation can occur. For example, the idiom “김치국부터 마시지 마라” (Kimchiguk buteo masiji mara), which means “don’t expect too much too soon,” can be misinterpreted if the Korean eating customs related to it are not explained.

Therefore, it is essential for translators and Korean language teachers to provide deeper explanations regarding the cultural and social contexts behind these idioms and cultural expressions. A translation approach that does not rely solely on literal translation but also considers cultural context will greatly help Korean language learners in Indonesia understand the meanings and messages contained in these expressions. Overall, this study emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity in translating Korean idioms and cultural expressions. With a deeper understanding of the source culture and contextual translation, Korean language learners in Indonesia can more easily grasp and appreciate the unique cultural expressions in the Korean language.

FINANCING

The authors did not receive financing for the development of this research.

Conflict of Interest

The authors declare that there is no conflict of interest.

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