Free English–Korean translations of letters to loved ones.
Gaps. Miscommunications. Thoughts left unsaid.
We know the feeling.
For a certain generation of Korean Americans, truly understanding our families — and having them understand us — can feel like a lost cause. But a single instance of candid expression can transform relationships.
Free of charge and on a first-come first-served basis, we translate personal letters that are submitted to us. We invite you to say what you want to say — in all its complexity and nuance — to your parents, grandparents, children, grandchildren, and other loved ones.
How It Works
Who We Are
We’re a mother–daughter duo with a shared passion for language. To ensure that our work is as fluid and faithful to originals as possible, we closely collaborate on every translation.
Sunghee is a former college English lecturer and Korean language instructor who immigrated to the U.S. from South Korea in the 1980s. She holds a Master’s degree in English Language and Literature.
Kate is a writing instructor who was born and raised in the U.S. She holds a Literature degree from Yale, studied graduate-level Korean and translation theory in Seoul, and has served as an editor for numerous publications.
Kate and her mother were able to translate every element of my letter, from a close eye on grammar to striking the proper tone. I felt confident that the word choice translated that special element of language that letters often hold — that heartfulness — and this element is what makes letters so special. I knew nothing fell between the cracks with the translation, and the letter even led to a real breakthrough in my relationship with my mother and her parents.
— Laura S.
FAQ
How can I send you my letter?
Fill out the form below. Alternatively, you can email us the letter, either in the message body or as an attachment (Word, PDF, or scanned images are all fine, as long as the writing is clearly legible). We’ll email you to confirm we’ve received your letter.
Can I trust you with personal content?
In a word — yes. We keep all content sent to us strictly confidential, and we return or permanently delete all original materials after sending translations. Our only goal in running Same Page is to help others connect with their loved ones; rest assured that we’ll never share your information or letters with anyone.
Is there a length limit for letters?
Yes. Please keep your letter to around 500 words max (approximately 1 single-spaced typed page, or 2 handwritten pages).
Will all letters be accepted for translation?
Yes, until we’ve hit capacity. (If this happens, we’ll notify you right away via email; the top banner of this website will also be updated accordingly.) Extremely inflammatory letters and documents other than personal letters will not be accepted for translation. We may refuse translation requests at our discretion.
When will I receive the translation?
We’ll let you know when we email you to confirm we’ve received your letter. We anticipate that the average turnaround will be 72 hours after your letter hits our inbox.
Are the translations really free?
Yes! For those who are interested in donating, we encourage you to consider supporting the Korean American Center, which focuses on Korean language education and intergenerational connection-building.
Translation Request Form
To submit a translation request, please fill out this form or email us.
Same Page Translations 