The song is about the difficulties crossing a mountain pass called "Arirang". There are many versions of this song. The first verse (given below) is most often sung.

Notes

*Arariyo has no meaning. It's in the song for the sound and to help it flow.

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Pronunciation:

Arirang, Arirang, Arariyo...
Arirang gogaero neom-eoganda.
Nareul beorigo gasineun nim-eun
Simnido motgaseo balbyeongnanda.

Comments

This song is on the Intangible Cultural Heritage List by Unesco.

We welcome other versions of this song. Please email me if you'd like to share a version you know. Thanks! Mama Lisa

Watch
The song starts in the video below at 0.30
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Below is an animated version first in Korean and then in English.
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Thanks and Acknowledgements

Translation by Lisa.