Han-obaengnyeon
Singer: Unknown (Gangwon Oral Tradition)
Region
Gangwon Province
Genre
Gangwon Folk Song
Usage
Entertainment Song
Han-obaengnyeon is a folk song imbued with the emotions of the mountainous Gangwon region, expressing life's deep sorrow through a low, resonant voice. The title comes from the refrain 'Why such resentment when we wish to live five hundred years,' with the refrain sung before the verses. This record is an archival resource collected to organize and preserve its representative verses and cultural transmission.
Commentary & Notes
Amuryeom: An exclamation expressing strong agreement, similar to 'of course.'
Wen Seonghwayo: Meaning 'why cause such distress when we agreed to live five hundred years,' it captures both resentment and lingering affection toward a departing lover.
Set to the slow Jungmori rhythm, the song's primary charm lies in the contrast between the low-register refrain and the verses that begin an octave higher.
Cultural Background
Alongside Gangwon Arirang and Jeongseon Arirang, this song highlights the 'Menari-jo' melodic style of the eastern Taebaek Mountains; it is sung nationwide for its ability to convey sorrow without losing a sense of joy. Today, it continues to evolve as a popular subject for creative Korean traditional music, including variations for the 25-string gayageum.
Lyrics
아무렴 그렇지
그렇구말고
한 오백년 살자는데
웬 성화요
한 많은 이 세상
야속한 임아
정을 두고 몸만 가니
눈물이 나네
Oh yes, it's true
It's true indeed
We only wish to live five hundred years
So why torment me so?
In this world so full of sorrow
O my heartless love
You leave your heart with me and go
And my tears fall
