Dub ((full)) — Evangelion Korean
Evangelion Korean Dub Report
Introduction
Neon Genesis Evangelion is a beloved anime series that has gained a significant following worldwide. The series, created by Gainax and Studio Khara, has been dubbed into various languages, including Korean. This report provides an overview of the Evangelion Korean dub, its history, and notable aspects.
History of the Korean Dub
The Korean dub of Evangelion was first released in 2000 by Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC), a major South Korean television network. The dub was produced in collaboration with Studio Gainax and Seoul Movie Entertainment, a Korean animation studio. The dubbed episodes were broadcast on MBC from July 2000 to January 2001.
Dubbing Details
- Language: Korean
- Dubbing Studio: Seoul Movie Entertainment (in association with Studio Gainax)
- Release Date: July 2000 (MBC broadcast)
- Number of Episodes: 26 (Rei I, II, and III versions)
Notable Aspects of the Korean Dub
- Casting: The Korean dub features a well-known voice cast, including:
- Shinji Ikari: voiced by Lee Young-soo ( ê·¸ì í Young-soo)
- Rei Ayanami: voiced by Park Ji-yoon ( ê·¸ì§í Ji-yoon)
- Asuka Langley Soryu: voiced by Lee Hyeon-seo ( ì•´ì „ì„¤ë¡ Seo)
- Script and Translation: The Korean dub follows the original Japanese script closely, with some minor adjustments to better suit the Korean audience. The translation aims to preserve the original characters' personalities and emotions.
Availability and Reception
- Broadcast History: The Korean dub was broadcast on MBC from July 2000 to January 2001. It was later re-released on DVD and digital platforms in Korea.
- Reception: The Korean dub received generally positive reviews from fans and critics. While some complained about minor inaccuracies in translation and voice acting, the overall reception was favorable.
Comparison with Other Dubs
- Japanese Original: The Korean dub is known for its faithfulness to the original Japanese script and voice acting style.
- Other Language Dubs: Compared to other Evangelion dubs (e.g., English, Chinese), the Korean dub has a distinct voice cast and style, reflecting the preferences of the Korean audience.
Conclusion
The Evangelion Korean dub is a well-produced and faithful adaptation of the original series. While not perfect, it has been well-received by fans in Korea and offers a unique viewing experience. For Evangelion enthusiasts interested in exploring the series in Korean, this dub is definitely worth checking out.
References
- Munhwa Broadcasting Corporation (MBC). (2000). Neon Genesis Evangelion [Korean dub].
- Studio Gainax. (n.d.). Evangelion [ Korean Dub] Information.
The Korean dubbing history of Neon Genesis Evangelion is a multi-generational saga, transitioning from early video releases to high-quality modern restorations. The series has seen multiple versions, each reflecting the evolving landscape of Korean media localization. Major Dubbing Eras Champ Video Era (Early 1990s) : The earliest exposure for many Korean fans was the Champ Video (Gaia TV)
release. This version is often remembered for its localized names, such as renaming as "Yujo". Tooniverse Redub (1999) : A widely recognized version broadcast on the Tooniverse
cable channel. This version featured a star-studded cast that defined the characters for a generation of fans. Mirage Entertainment Blu-ray (2021)
: A significant modern effort to produce a definitive, high-definition Korean dub for the 25th Anniversary Blu-ray
release. This version was highly praised for its emotional delivery and the fact that it included the first-ever official Korean dubs for the films Evangelion: Death (True)² The End of Evangelion Principal Korean Cast (Tooniverse vs. Blu-ray)
The casting choices often highlight the different approaches between the classic TV broadcast and the modern collector's release. Tooniverse Version (1999) Mirage Blu-ray (2021) Shinji Ikari Son Jeong-ah Chae Min-ji Rei Ayanami Lee Hyeon-jin Lee Ji-hyun (assumed modern standard) Asuka Langley Bak Si-yun Misato Katsuragi Choi Deok-hee Han Shin (assumed modern standard) Ryoji Kaji Kim Hwan-jin Gu Ja-hyeong Gendo Ikari Kim Kwan-cheol (Modern Recast) Key Features & Controversies Name Changes
: In early versions, names were often adjusted to sound more Korean or were simplified, a common practice in early 90s Korean anime localization. Emotional Impact Mirage Entertainment
Blu-ray dub is specifically noted for its ability to convey complex emotions in the native language, with fans highlighting
final scenes as being more "dramatic and soul-stirring" than the original Japanese. Recasting for Rebuilds Rebuild of Evangelion films also featured distinct dubbing efforts, with Chae Min-ji continuing as Shinji for the final movie's Blu-ray release. or see a comparison of specific localized character names
Here’s a social media post you can use for platforms like Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook:
Title: 🎙️《에반게리온》 한국어 더빙 – Is it worth watching? evangelion korean dub
If you’ve only seen Neon Genesis Evangelion with Japanese or English audio, you might be sleeping on the Korean dub. 🇰🇷
Here’s why fans are talking about it:
✅ Strong voice direction – The emotional weight of Shinji’s breakdowns, Asuka’s fiery rage, and Rei’s unsettling calm come through powerfully in Korean.
✅ Localized without losing the weird – The dub respects the original’s psychological and religious symbolism while making dialogue feel natural to Korean audiences.
✅ Nostalgia factor – For Korean fans who grew up with the early 2000s broadcasts or DVD releases, this is the definitive way to experience Eva.
🎥 Where to find it:
- Some cuts are on YouTube (search "에반게리온 더빙")
- The Korean DVD/BD releases include the dub
- Streaming on Korean platforms like Laftel or Wavve (region-dependent)
⚠️ Note: The Korean dub for the original TV series differs from the Rebuild movies – both have their own casts. The TV dub has a raw, classic anime feel; the Rebuild dub is more polished.
Have you heard Evangelion in Korean? What’s your take? 👇
#에반게리온 #Evangelion #KoreanDub #AnimeCommunity #NeonGenesisEvangelion #더빙애니
Would you like a shorter version for a tweet or a caption for a video clip?
Title: "Evangelion Fans Rejoice: The Korean Dub is Worth Checking Out!"
Hey fellow anime enthusiasts!
For years, fans of Neon Genesis Evangelion have been eagerly awaiting an official Korean dub of the iconic series. And finally, in 2019, the Korean dub of Evangelion was released, making it more accessible to Korean-speaking audiences.
The Dubbing Team
The Korean dub of Evangelion features a talented voice cast, including:
- Shinji Ikari (voiced by Lee In-seok)
- Rei Ayanami (voiced by Park Ji-yoon)
- Asuka Langley Soryu (voiced by Lee Hyeon-seo)
- Misato Katsuragi (voiced by Choi Han)
The dubbing team did an amazing job of bringing the characters to life in Korean, capturing the emotional depth and complexity of the original Japanese version.
What to Expect
The Korean dub of Evangelion stays true to the original story and characters, with some minor adjustments to accommodate cultural nuances. The translation is accurate, and the voice acting is superb, making it easy to become immersed in the world of Evangelion.
Reception
The Korean dub of Evangelion has received positive reviews from fans and critics alike. Many have praised the voice acting, saying that it brings a new level of emotional depth to the characters. Others have appreciated the effort to make Evangelion more accessible to a broader audience.
Where to Watch
If you're interested in checking out the Korean dub of Evangelion, you can currently stream it on various platforms, including:
- Naver Webtoon (Korea)
- KBS World (Korea)
- Amazon Prime Video (other countries)
Conclusion
The Korean dub of Neon Genesis Evangelion is a great way for Korean-speaking fans to experience this beloved anime series. With a talented voice cast and faithful adaptation, it's definitely worth checking out. If you're a fan of Evangelion or just interested in exploring different dubs, be sure to give it a try! Notable Aspects of the Korean Dub
Share your thoughts! Have you watched the Korean dub of Evangelion? What do you think of it? Let us know in the comments!
The Evangelion Korean dub has a storied history that stretches from early local television broadcasts to the modern streaming era. While many international fans are familiar with the English versions, the Korean localized versions represent a significant part of the franchise's cultural impact in East Asia. The Evolution of the Korean Dub
The Korean localization of Neon Genesis Evangelion has evolved through multiple iterations, each reflecting the changing landscape of anime distribution in South Korea:
Original Broadcast (1990s): In 1996, Neon Genesis Evangelion was first introduced to Korean audiences through a dubbed version that aired under the title Evangelion, with the "Neon Genesis" prefix removed to fit local broadcast standards.
Home Video and Cable: For many years, the primary way to experience the Korean dub was through direct-to-video releases from Daewon and subsequent airings on specialized anime channels like Anione.
The Netflix Era (2019–Present): When Netflix acquired the global rights to the series in 2019, it commissioned a brand-new Korean dub as part of its effort to provide a more literal translation supervised by Studio Khara. Key Korean Voice Cast (Classic vs. Modern)
The Korean voice acting industry is renowned for its depth, and Evangelion featured several iconic veterans. Original Korean Cast Notable Characteristics Shinji Ikari Ahn Gyung-jin
Known for capturing Shinji's initial reluctance and vulnerability. Asuka Langley Ji Mi-ae
Praised for conveying Asuka's high-energy and volatile personality. Ryoji Kaji Hwan-jin Kim
Evaluated by fans as a standout performance for the suave character. Ritsuko Akagi Mun-jae Choi
Delivered the stoic and analytical tone essential for the NERV scientist. Where to Watch the Korean Dub
Today, access to the Korean dub is split between modern streaming platforms and legacy physical media:
Netflix: The most accessible way to watch the series with a Korean dub today is on Netflix. This version features the updated 2019 cast and script.
Physical Media: The original 1990s and early 2000s Korean dubs are largely out of print and can typically only be found through secondhand marketplaces or specialized archives.
Regional Restrictions: While the Korean dub is available on the Korean version of Netflix, availability in other regions may vary depending on local licensing agreements. Reception and Controversy
Like the English-speaking fandom, the Korean community has debated the merits of the "Classic" vs. "Netflix" dubs.
Translation Accuracy: The Netflix version is often cited for its literal accuracy to the Japanese script, a requirement pushed by Studio Khara.
Nostalgia vs. Polish: Many older fans prefer the original broadcast cast for their energetic performances, while newer viewers often appreciate the higher production values and consistency of the modern Netflix recording.
The history of the Korean dub of Neon Genesis Evangelion is a fascinating journey through four distinct eras, reflecting the evolution of the South Korean anime market and changing standards in localization. 1. The Early Days: The VHS Dub (Late 1990s)
The first encounter South Korean fans had with a dubbed version of Evangelion
was via VHS in the late 1990s. This version is often remembered with mixed feelings: Production Limitations
: Due to a small budget and a limited pool of voice actors, performers frequently pulled "double duty." A famous example is the voice actress for Asuka also voicing Kaworu. Translation the whispering—survived the scissors.
: The script was often unfaithful to the original Japanese, sometimes taking creative liberties that significantly altered the tone.
: Among modern fans, this version is generally considered subpar, though it holds nostalgic value as the first localized entry for the series. 2. The Video Game Dub: Girlfriend of Steel
The second official dubbing project was for the visual novel game Neon Genesis Evangelion: Girlfriend of Steel . This version is highly regarded by the community. Improved Casting
: It featured a more robust cast of voice actors who captured the characters' personalities more effectively than the original VHS release.
: Many fans view this as a "golden era" for the Korean voice cast, as several of these actors eventually returned for modern projects. 3. The Modern Standard: Amazon Prime Rebuild Dub With the global release of the Rebuild of Evangelion
films (1.11 through 3.0+1.0), Amazon Prime Video produced a high-quality Korean dub. Consistency
: This dub is noted for its high production values and faithful script. Cast Reunion
: Notably, the project brought back several voice actors from the beloved Girlfriend of Steel
game dub, providing a sense of continuity that resonated well with long-term fans. 4. The Streaming Era: Netflix Re-Dub (2019)
When Netflix acquired the global rights to the original TV series and the End of Evangelion
movie, they commissioned brand-new dubs across multiple languages, including Korean. The "Khara" Influence
: Like the English version, the Korean Netflix dub followed a strict, literal translation overseen by Studio Khara.
: While technically proficient, this version—much like its international counterparts—faced criticism for being "too literal" or "stiff" compared to older, more emotive performances. Availability and Where to Watch
Today, the most accessible way to experience the Korean dub is through global streaming platforms. : Features the 2019 re-dub of the original series and The End of Evangelion Amazon Video : Hosts the film series with the modern Korean cast. Physical Media : Collector versions, such as the Neon Genesis Evangelion RENEWAL DVD
, can still be found through specialty retailers like YesAsia, though they are increasingly rare. Are you interested in a detailed list
of the Korean voice actors for specific characters like Shinji or Asuka? AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
Here’s a concise guide to the Korean dub of Neon Genesis Evangelion (including The End of Evangelion and the Rebuild films).
Conclusion: A Cultural Time Capsule
The Evangelion Korean dub is more than just a translation; it is a historical document. It represents Korea’s awkward, painful, yet enthusiastic embrace of Japanese pop culture after decades of rejection. You can hear the tension in the voice acting—the struggle to convey existential horror in a language that usually favors melodrama.
For a Western fan who has seen Eva a dozen times, listening to the Korean dub is like viewing the series through a prism. The colors are slightly different. Shinji is Shin-woo. The blood is black. But the hole in the heart of the pilot remains the same.
If you ever get the chance to listen to Lee Myung-hee scream "싫어!" (I hate it!) as Asuka in Episode 22, you will understand why Korea fell in love with Evangelion—not despite the localization, but because of it.
Keywords: Evangelion Korean dub, Shinsegi Evangelion, Tooniverse, Kim Seul-ha, Korean voice actors, Lost anime dub, Evangelion censorship, 1999 Evangelion Korea.
Reception & Cultural Impact
- Fan response: Responses among Korean fans range from appreciation for accessibility and performance to debates about translation choices and fidelity to original intent. Some purists prefer subtitles for perceived faithfulness to original vocal performances, while others value the immersion a good dub provides.
- Influence: Evangelion’s themes of identity, trauma, and societal pressure have resonated with Korean audiences, contributing to its lasting popularity and influence on local creators and fandom.
Censorship and Cultural Adaptation: What Was Cut?
Perhaps the most defining characteristic of the Evangelion Korean dub is not the voice acting itself, but what was removed. South Korean broadcast regulators in the 90s had strict rules against:
- Depictions of suicide or self-harm.
- Nudity (even non-sexual).
- Direct references to Japanese culture (Shinto shrines were often edited out or glossed over).
- Extreme violence against minors.
Consequently, the Korean broadcast versions of Evangelion are notorious for their aggressive editing.
- Kaworu’s Fate: The intimate nature of Shinji and Kaworu’s relationship was heavily downplayed. Bathhouse scenes were cropped or darkened.
- Asuka’s Mind Rape: Episode 22, featuring the Arael psychic attack, was brutally cut. Long stretches of silence or abstract imagery were shortened to avoid the "sexual" overtones of the violation.
- The Ending: The final two episodes (25 & 26), already abstract, were often rearranged or truncated to fit broadcast standards.
Despite this, the voice acting itself transcended the censorship. Fans argue that the emotion of the Evangelion Korean dub—the screaming, the sobbing, the whispering—survived the scissors.