Hangeul Proclamation Day

By Suzanne Quinson

October 9^th marks the date that Hangeul (meaning great script) was originally proclaimed the writing system for the Korean language, departing from the use of Chinese characters. The holiday was officially designated in 1945 when Korea gained its independence. From 1991 to 2012, it wasn’t celebrated as a legal holiday in South Korea, due to pressure on the government to reduce the number of formal holidays. However, in 2013, Hangeul Proclamation Day was restored to legal holiday status.

Hangeul was invented in 1443 to increase literacy in Korea. To this day, Hangeul is regarded as one of the world’s most systematic alphabets. King Sejong (reigned 1418-1450) saw to it that a new writing system was developed, easy to learn and access, so that even the people of lower status with little or no education could understand and use it. The Chinese script had also been poorly suited to Korean’s more complex grammar (another reason to work with only the best Korean interpreters available). Incidentally, in recognition of his devotion to enhanced education for his people, Teacher’s Day in South Korea is celebrated on King Sejong’s birthday, May 15.

Languages involving a customized alphabet are especially daunting to many of us. I had to take ancient Greek in my freshman year of high school — remembering a foreign alphabet is tough! A professional, qualified, easy-to-understand interpreter possesses a skill and expertise at which we marvel. They first tackle the challenge of learning a completely different language (often several languages) and mastering it to the point of speaking like a native. Their concentration, professionalism and grace under pressure is astounding. This professionalism is demonstrated in their dedication to proper preparation. As soon as a job is confirmed, the interpreter requests captions, notices, word lists, complaints, and any other relevant material with which they can familiarize themselves to be primed for the deposition.

Interpreters can benefit greatly from viewing realtime, increasing the importance of this special skill set provided by a qualified court reporter. With an accurate record of what is being said immediately available, the interpreter is even better equipped to provide accurate interpretation without interruptions or delays. The reporter and interpreter work together as a cohesive unit in this way, keeping the deposition moving at a reasonable pace (interpreted depositions naturally take approximately twice as long as non-interpreted depositions).

The need for such a talented, unified team is all the more reason to work with the best-in-class court reporting agency, guaranteeing coverage by qualified reporters, videographers, and interpreters. These professionals prepare diligently leading up to the proceedings, then work together as a team to provide the quality coverage you expect. They can assist with logistical considerations as well, reserving a conference room and taking care of catering needs, printing exhibits, and more. With court reporting professionals living in Seoul, Planet Depos not only provides this best-in- class reporting, but does so with no travel fees for your South Korea depositions.

For more information on interpretation or other considerations involved in international depositions, contact Planet Depos International Scheduling at 888.433.3767 or international@planetdepos.com.