Karona Soft’s Telegram Translation Bot Makes Khmer Voice Messages Accessible to Korean Residents

AI-powered bot demonstrated at Next-Generation Korean Leaders Network meeting, translating Khmer voice messages into Korean and generating Khmer replies
Developed by KLC Director Jung In-hyu, the service aims to solve everyday communication challenges faced by Korean residents in Cambodia

Understanding Khmer-language voice messages is a common challenge for Korean residents in Cambodia. While text messages can be translated using existing tools, voice messages often require assistance from Khmer-speaking friends or colleagues. A new AI-powered translation service developed by a Korean resident aims to address this inconvenience.

On November 10, Karona Soft demonstrated its Telegram-based “Khmer Voice Message Translation Bot” during the monthly meeting of the Next-Generation Korean Leaders Network at Chok Chey Finance headquarters in Phnom Penh.

Participants tested the bot by forwarding Khmer voice messages to receive Korean translations and converting Korean replies into Khmer text or voice messages.

One attendee described the service as an innovative solution to a long-standing communication problem, while another praised its practical value for Korean residents. The availability of free trial credits also received positive feedback.

The bot was developed by Jung In-hyu, director of KLC Language Academy and CEO of Karona Soft, and entered beta testing earlier this month.

From Khmer Language Education to AI Development
Jung has long supported Korean residents in Cambodia through Khmer-language education, YouTube content, and information about local life, real estate, and travel.

After discovering AI technology in late 2022, he began exploring its practical applications. By late 2025, he had learned “vibe coding,” an AI-assisted development approach that allows users to create software through natural-language instructions without traditional programming experience.

“I realized that I needed to move beyond providing digital content and start creating digital experiences,” Jung explained. “The most valuable digital experiences are those that solve problems people face in everyday life.”

The idea for the translation bot emerged from watching Korean residents struggle with Khmer voice messages.
“People could translate text messages using existing tools, but they often had to ask Khmer speakers to interpret voice messages. I wanted to solve that problem,” he said.

Translate Voice Messages Directly Through Telegram
The translation bot operates entirely within Telegram, eliminating the need to install a separate application.
Users simply forward a Khmer voice message to the bot, which typically delivers a Korean translation within approximately 20 seconds.

Rather than translating word for word, the service considers context and allows users to include additional notes. Important details such as dates, numbers, and monetary amounts are displayed alongside the original Khmer text, while uncertain sections are flagged for verification.

Users can also write replies in Korean and convert them into Khmer text or voice messages. Before sending, the bot provides a Korean back-translation for confirmation and adjusts the language style and voice according to the sender’s gender.

Jung estimates the bot’s current translation accuracy at approximately 95%, based on his own experience, but emphasizes that AI-generated translations can contain errors and should always be reviewed.

The service is currently in beta testing, offering 150 free credits upon registration. Khmer text replies are available free of charge.

Turning Ideas into Applications with AI
Jung said AI-assisted coding has dramatically accelerated his development process, allowing him to create new applications and projects roughly every one to two weeks.

His projects include “EPS-VOCA,” a Korean vocabulary learning application for Cambodian students, and “Nyam Nyam Phnom Penh,” a restaurant menu recommendation app for Phnom Penh residents.

He is also preparing a Korean-Khmer interpretation application and has developed internal systems for academy management, online classes, and educational content.

Another project, “Teddy Bear Claw Machine Battle,” a game he developed himself, is scheduled for release on the global gaming platform Steam in December.

“AI coding allows us to turn ideas into reality incredibly quickly, with almost unlimited possibilities for expansion,” he said.

AI Education and the Importance of Human Judgment
Beyond software development, Jung also teaches AI workshops for Korean children at Phnom Penh Hangul School, demonstrating applications created through vibe coding and helping students develop AI-generated stories.

He encourages students to explore how AI can expand their creativity and potential.

“Just a year ago, I couldn’t write a single line of code. Today, I’m developing software that helps people in our community,” he said.

However, Jung stressed that human judgment remains essential.
“AI can make mistakes, and it does not take responsibility for its results. People must remain the final decision-makers and reviewers,” he explained, emphasizing the continued importance of traditional education and critical thinking.

Looking ahead, Jung plans to continue sharing his experience through AI-related columns in NewsBriefing Cambodia and developing practical digital services for the Korean community.

How to Use the Khmer Voice Message Translation Bot
Service: Karona Khmer Voice Helper Bot
Platform: Telegram
Telegram Username: @Karona_Khmer_Voice_Helper_Bot
Registration: Search for the bot on Telegram → Tap Start → Apply for beta testing → Begin using the service after approval
Main Features: Khmer voice-to-Korean translation, Korean-to-Khmer text and voice replies
Free Benefits: 150 credits upon registration and free Khmer text replies
Note: The service is currently in beta testing. Features and usage conditions may change as development continues.