Arirang (Korean Folk Song)

Arirang is the most famous Korean folk song, both inside and outside the country.
It has many versions, but the standard is the one from Seoul.

Here is the translation of the song.
The first line is the romanization, then it is followed by the English translation; same for both verses.

Arirang, arirang, arariyo,
Arirang kokearo naumawkanda

(Walking over the peak at Arirang
you left me behind.
You will be tired before you reach one mile.)

Na reul pauriko kasineun nimeun
Simni

do moskasaw palpyaungnanda

(Walking over the peak at Arirang
the sorrows in my heart
are as many as the stars in the sky.)

I knew about this song a long time ago, but I didn't really have any special impression about it.

However, the news about the New York Philharmonic Orchestra visit to North Korea had drawn me deeply to the song.

The orchestra played Arirang in front of many skeptical high officials of the North Korea as a peace effort for the North-South Korea reconciliation.

I really appreciate these amazing musicians talents and efforts in playing a beautiful piece that touches the heart of the Korean people who are in conflicts.

I really hope that in the near future, this two brothers (North and South Korea) will reunite and find the true meaning of a proud nation.

There are two versions that I like the most:

1. The New York Philharmonic Orchestra
2. The Arirang Rhapsody by Czech Philharmonic Orchestra and Lee Ji Soo
   

The score of the song: