Korea Classic Translation Institute Marks 60th Anniversary: "We Will Strive to Pass On the Value of Classics to the Next Generation and the World"

60th Anniversary Celebration Held

The Korea Classic Translation Institute, which was launched in 1956 as the "Korean Cultural Promotion Association" by ten senior scholars in Korean studies, is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.

At 10 a.m. on the 27th, key attendees are conducting a cake-cutting ceremony at the "60th Anniversary Ceremony of the Korea Classic Translation Institute" held at HW Convention in Jongno-gu, Seoul. Courtesy of the Korea Classic Translation Institute

The Korea Classic Translation Institute announced that it held the "60th Anniversary Celebration of the Korea Classic Translation Institute" at 10 a.m. on the 27th at HW Convention in Jongno-gu, Seoul.

Since its establishment, the institute has steadily carried out major classical translation projects, beginning with Seo Geojeong's "Dongmunseon" (1966), followed by Jeong Yak-yong's "Mokminsimseo" and Lee Geungik's "Yeollyeosilgisul." Notably, the translation of the "Annals of the Joseon Dynasty," which began in 1971 in collaboration with the King Sejong Memorial Society, was completed in 1993 after 22 years, marking a significant turning point in Korean classical studies.

In 1974, the institute established the National Translation Training Center (now the Korea Classic Translation Education Center), laying the foundation for cultivating professional talent in classical translation.

Since its reestablishment in 2007 as a public institution under the Ministry of Education, the institute has continued to translate a variety of classical texts into modern Korean, such as the "Diaries of the Royal Secretariat," "Ilseongnok," and the collected works of distinguished scholars. Ongoing revisions and updates are also being made to the already completed "Annals of the Joseon Dynasty." In addition, the institute is working on the "Comprehensive Compilation of Korean Classics" project, which aims to systematize the knowledge structure of Korean classics and strengthen the foundation for Korean studies research.

The celebration began with a welcoming speech by Director Kim Eonjong and a commemorative address by Chairman Jeong Haebang, followed by congratulatory remarks from key figures including Minister of Education Choi Gyojin. In the commemorative lecture, Kim Yongok (Do-ol) delivered a talk on "The History of the Korea Classic Translation Institute and the Renaissance of Korean Culture."

At the event, plaques of merit were presented to senior scholars Lee Seungchang, Cho Changrae, Oh Gyugeun, and Park Chansu for their contributions to the advancement of classical translation, while a plaque of appreciation was awarded to Yoon Donghan, Chairman of the Seok-O Cultural Foundation.

Director Kim Eonjong stated, "This 60th anniversary celebration is an opportunity to reflect on the achievements of classical translation and to redefine the role and value of the Korea Classic Translation Institute as a central institution for classical translation. We will strive to build a knowledge infrastructure that connects the value of the classics to the next generation and the world by pursuing future-oriented projects that incorporate new technologies."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.