On the morning of September 12, the Consulate General of South Korea in Vietnam, in collaboration with the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in Ho Chi Minh City, introduced the Vietnamese Village (K-Vietnam Valley) project in Bonghwa County.

The K-Vietnam Valley is being constructed in Bonghwa County, Gyeongsang Province, South Korea, a region that still preserves relics and descendants of the Ly Hoa Son lineage. The site spans more than 118,000 square meters and features several iconic Vietnamese cultural structures, including a replica of the One Pillar Pagoda, a statue of Emperor Ly Thai To, a museum, and a Vietnamese cultural center.

This project not only honors the history of the Ly family but also establishes a space for education, tourism, and cultural exchange. It serves as a bridge between past and future, reinforcing the sustainable cooperation between Vietnam and South Korea.

The project has been underway since 2018. At the end of August this year, the statue of Ly Thai To was officially inaugurated.

Shin Hyung Il, Director of International Cooperation at Bonghwa County, emphasized that the project holds great significance as the two countries celebrate 33 years of diplomatic relations. It also symbolizes the growing friendship and cooperation between Gyeongsangbuk Province and Bac Ninh Province, as well as between Bonghwa County and Tu Son City.

Acting Consul General of South Korea in Ho Chi Minh City, Kwon Tae Han, affirmed that Vietnam-South Korea relations have advanced remarkably since diplomatic ties were established in 1992, especially after being elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022.

Recalling the historical connection dating back nearly 800 years, when Prince Ly Long Tuong emigrated to Goryeo, Mr. Kwon Tae Han highlighted Bonghwa’s special role in promoting Vietnam-Korea cultural exchange. He noted that the Vietnamese Village project will help further spread and strengthen the two countries’ friendly relations.

Professor Dr. Ngo Thi Phuong Lan, Rector of the University of Social Sciences and Humanities in Ho Chi Minh City and honorary citizen of Gyeongsangbuk Province, stated that the project is not only a cultural-historical work but also a symbol of the nearly 800-year relationship between Vietnam and South Korea. The project fosters national pride and enhances the younger generation’s awareness of the importance of preserving and promoting heritage. At the same time, it offers opportunities for communities and tourism businesses to connect, promote, and explore potential cooperation.

Lan expressed hope that the Vietnamese Village will become a prominent cultural and educational site, contributing to the deepening of friendship, tourism development, and the advancement of the comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and South Korea.

Le Huyen