Van Lang University Hosts Hangeul Festival 2024 for the First Time

On October 5, 2024, Van Lang University, Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Department of Oriental Studies successfully hosted the Hangeul Festival 2024, marking the 578th anniversary of Hangeul Day. The event attracted over 1,000 students from more than 23 universities and colleges across Southern Vietnam, offering a vibrant cultural experience that spread the spirit of Hangeul and honored the beauty of Korea’s culture and people.

The opening ceremony was graced by the presence of Mr. Woo Hyung Min, Chief Representative of the Korea Foundation in Vietnam; Ms. Kim Soo Yeon, Head of the Administrative Department of the Korean Language Center in Ho Chi Minh City; Mr. Truong Van Hung, President of Van Lang Saigon College; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thi My Dieu, President of Van Lang University; and Dr. Nguyen Thi Hien, Dean of the Faculty of Korean Language and Culture.

With the slogan "Create Hangeul - Create Miracles" of the Hangeul Festival 2024, Mr. Woo Hyung Min, Chief Representative of the Korea Foundation in Vietnam, stated: "Our presence here today is a miracle, opening a new chapter in the cooperative relationship between Vietnam and South Korea. I believe this miracle will lay a solid foundation for both countries to develop together, bringing greater value to education and training."

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Thi My Dieu, President of Van Lang University, shared: “Today, as cultural ambassadors, you will help strengthen the bond between Vietnam and South Korea. Through educational programs and hands-on experiences, we not only learn about the language and culture but also develop essential skills and build connections. More significantly, we are working together to create a bright future in which Vietnamese culture is widely recognized on the international stage.”

Previously, throughout July 2024, exciting side events such as the T-shirt Design Contest with the theme "Create Hangeul - Create Miracles" or the Media Video Contest saw numerous creative and high-quality entries. These events, showcasing students' talents and dedication, played a key role in the festival’s success.

The Hangeul Festival 2024 also marked the conclusion of the activities for the Korean Debate Contest. After the preliminary round on September 9, the top eight teams competed against each other on contemporary and highly practical topics. In the final round on October 5, all teams demonstrated their fluent Korean skills, extensive knowledge, and sharp logical thinking through impressive debates. Ms. Kim Soo Yeon, Head of Administration at the Korean Language Center in Ho Chi Minh City, expressed: "Through this contest, I hope the contestants can delve deeper into the richness of language and culture by engaging in debates with individuals from diverse backgrounds."

Later in the afternoon, the festival atmosphere became even more vibrant with a cultural performance contest showcasing various aspects of Korean culture, ranging from elegant traditional dances and heartfelt ballads to energetic modern dance. Each performance was well-prepared, with attention to costumes, music, and choreography, delivering professional performances that transported the audience into a mesmerizing miniature world of Korean culture.

During the festival, students immersed themselves in a vibrant atmosphere filled with exciting activities, from decorating traditional booths and exploring unique cultural spaces to joining the dynamic K-pop Random Dance Contest. Each activity provided unforgettable experiences that celebrated the beauty of both Vietnamese and Korean cultures while fostering opportunities for connection and friendship. These events encouraged students to step out of their comfort zones, discover new horizons, and create cherished memories.

Though the Hangeul Festival 2024 has come to a close, the passion for Korean culture continues to burn brightly. It is hoped that, after the contest, each student will become a cultural ambassador, contributing to strengthening the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and South Korea.