Interesting Facts about Arirang, a Korean Folk Song that is Estimated to Have Existed for 600 Years and is Included in the UNESCO Cultural Heritage List

Kapanlagi.com - Arirang, for Korean enthusiasts, surely you have heard this word many times. Some even memorize the melody and lyrics of this song. Here are the lyrics:

Arirang, Arirang, Arariyo...
Arirang crosses over the hill.

If you leave me, you will not be able to walk even ten steps.
You will get tired before you pass the Danube.

There, over there, Baekdu Mountain,
Even if winter comes, it doesn't wither.

So, what exactly is Arirang? And what is the history of this song?

1. Estimated to Have Existed 600 Years Ago

Trot Singer So Hee © Korea.net

Arirang is a song that is estimated to have existed 600 years ago. One of the elements that keeps Arirang in the hearts of Koreans is its ability for any singer to easily add their own words to express their feelings.

As quoted from the Cultural Heritage Administration, english.cha.go.kr, Arirang is a folk song that represents Korea and has been passed down from one generation to another. Initially, Arirang was just a simple song consisting of the refrain 'Arirang, arirang, arariyo' and two simple lines, which varied from region to region.

2. Over 3000 Variations of the Song

Lyrics of Arirang © Korean Cultural Center Indonesia

Over time, with various universal themes, simple musical composition and literature invite improvisation, imitation, and simultaneous singing, leading to its acceptance by different music genres.

In fact, there are many variations of the song despite the refrain lyrics always containing the words 'arirang' or 'arari'. It is mentioned that there are around 3600 variations of the song in 60 versions.

Who would have thought that this song could be used for different purposes, from relieving boredom at work, expressing feelings to loved ones, asking for happiness, or entertaining people during a celebration.

Arirang was included in the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list in 2012 for South Korea, and has become an inspiring anthem with the power to enhance communication and unity among Koreans, both domestically and internationally.

(kpl/mit)