United states | intercultural communications | Florida International University, Modesto A. Maidique Campus

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United States

Chong Woon Kim stood by the victim’s side in the courtroom, translating questions from lawyers and answers from her about rape and kidnap.

The complaints started with a friend of the victim. Then a Korean-speaking observer in the audience spoke up as well. Something was being lost-or added-in the translation, they said.

Kim, 57, is a certified court interpreter. He was randomly assigned to this case. Kim was formally accused of diluting the woman’s story and trying to dissuade her from testifying.

Harland Braun, the attorney for the defendant in the rape case, said it is unfair to punish the interpreter for using his skills to make clear the cultural and linguistic differences between Korean and American society.

  • In your opinion, do you agree with Harland Braun? Explain AND draw upon one or more SPECIFIC theories to support your answer and explain that theory?