Neoliberalism as (de)motivation behind pursuits of interpreting 

This chapter examines how the profession of interpreting has been redefined under neoliberal ideologies pervasive in South Korea, with a focus on its impact on trainee interpreters. The study is contextualised by the ascendence of English in Korean society, popularly known as “English fever”, born out of the processes of Korea’s neoliberalisation that began in the 1990s. Focusing on English-Korean interpreters, it provides an in-depth picture of the processes by which the profession of interpreting has been commodified and idealised as an epitome of neoliberal personhood. The transformation of the profession is found to have both motivating and demotivating impact on aspirant interpreters. On the one hand, the idealised personhood constructed in interpreting inspires young people to pursue the profession for self-development and self-actualisation. On the other hand, the popular interpreter personhood characterised by individual commitment to excellence and perfection causes anxiety and stress among trainee interpreters for fear of not meeting the anticipated standards. Through its investigation of the ties between neoliberalism and motivations regarding interpreting, the chapter discusses the relevance and importance of addressing neoliberal influences through interpreter training, illuminating future pedagogical implications.