Tourists experiencing wearing Hanbok and participating in Korean folk games

“Vietnam - Republic of Korea Cultural Days 2025” held in Hue City is a series of cultural events aimed at strengthening friendship and cooperation between the two countries, including Hue itself. This is an important cultural diplomacy event that affirms the close relationship between the two nations and reflects Hue’s determination to expand international exchange and cooperation, reinforcing its position as a cultural and tourism hub of Vietnam.

At No. 23 - 25 Le Loi, Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street, and the ironwood bridge along the poetic Huong River, a variety of vibrant activities took place, including exhibitions, art performances, cultural experience zones, tourism and culinary showcases, as well as traditional games to promote the cultural beauty of both nations. Through this event, Hue not only promoted Vietnam’s heritage and identity but also created a bonding environment that fostered mutual understanding and the sharing of unique cultural values between the two communities.

In the framework of the event, 100 stalls were set up to introduce the features of Vietnam and Korean culture, tourism, cuisine, and traditional products. Here, tourists got the chance to experience wearing Hanbok and participate in Korean folk games. At the same time, they could also enjoy unique culinary experiences and traditional dishes from both countries, and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere of a K-pop random dance activity. Furthermore, they could explore and admire handicrafts, OCOP products, Hue ao dai, and performances highlighting traditional craft villages.

This was an occasion for the long-standing cultural values of Vietnam and South Korea to shine together, creating a strong attraction for both domestic and international visitors. Notably, Gyeongju City, the ancient capital of the millennium-old Shilla Kingdom in South Korea and the host city of 2025 APEC Summit, made its first appearance at this event, offering many unique and meaningful experiences.

 Thanh Tien Paper flowers were showcased at the festival

The highlight of the event was a vibrant series of cultural exchange art programs, which were rich in the cultural identity of both nations. The audience could enjoy unique performances blending tradition and modernity, including Hue Royal Court Music, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, alongside many traditional Korean art performances (Gugak).

The public also immersed themselves in a youthful and vibrant atmosphere with K-pop and V-pop performances. The participation of the Uheeska art troupe from South Korea, the singer Minh Hang, along with many artists and artisans from Hue and other localities across Vietnam, created a unique cultural exchange space deeply rooted in tradition.

“Vietnam - Republic of Korea Cultural Day 2025” held in Hue City was not merely a cultural and artistic activity, but also a people-to-people and cultural diplomacy event of great significance. It served as an opportunity for Hue to express its aspiration for integration and affirm its new position as a centrally governed municipality. At the same time, the event laid a solid foundation for practical cooperation in the fields of culture, tourism, trade, and the creative industries.

Through the series of activities, the organizing committee expressed their hope that this event will become an important milestone in expanding Vietnam - Korea cooperation, contributing to elevating Hue’s presence on the global cultural exchange map.

By Thai Binh