“Korobeiniki” is a 19th-century Russian folk song based on a poem by Nikolay Nekrasov. It tells the story of a travelling merchant (korobeinik) who tries to win the heart of a young girl by offering her his wares. The song captures their playful exchange as they bargain, symbolising the courtship process. Over time, “Korobeiniki” became a cherished part of Russian folk traditions.

The melody is lively and speeds up, making it a favourite for dance performances. Outside Russia, it gained global fame as the theme music for the Tetris video game, first released on Nintendo in 1989. This connection helped make “Korobeiniki” one of the most recognisable folk melodies in the world, and it has been performed in various styles, from orchestral to electronic, showcasing its lasting influence.