Danang, Vietnam – The East Sea Park in Danang buzzed with activity as a vibrant Korean festival unfolded, drawing significant crowds eager to experience a diverse range of Korean culture, cuisine, and educational opportunities. The 5th Korea-Vietnam Festival, co-hosted by the Korean Consulate General in Vietnam and the city of Danang, ran from July 7th to 9th, transforming the park into a lively hub of exchange.
A Taste of Korea in Danang
Lines stretched long in front of a popular Korean tteokbokki (spicy rice cakes) franchise, where local youths, eyes wide with delight at the fiery flavors, repeatedly exclaimed “neueok” (more) while eagerly consuming the dish. Families were seen warming themselves with the savory broth from eomuk (fish cakes), and students enjoyed cheese hot dogs, with mothers holding up Korean-language informational signs. This culinary immersion was just one facet of the extensive offerings at the festival.
The festival, initially launched in 2022 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Korea and Vietnam, has now reached its fifth iteration, with the Consulate General and Danang City collaborating for the fourth time. It serves as a comprehensive platform for cultural, economic, and people-to-people exchanges, with a particular focus on central Vietnam.
Showcasing Korean Excellence
Over 80 booths were set up, showcasing Korean culture, tourism, education, and products. Prominent participants included the Korea Tourism Organization’s Hanoi branch, the Korean Education Center in Ho Chi Minh City, and KOTRA’s Danang trade office. Local governments from various Korean cities, such as Yongin, Osan, Pyeongtaek, Gwangyang, Gurye, and Daegu, also participated, alongside approximately 16 Korean universities offering consultations to prospective students.
A striking display of Korean webtoons attracted considerable attention. Young visitors posed for photos in front of the colorful panels, while even passersby paused to admire the artwork with curiosity. The exhibition space, decorated in a traditional Korean style with soft lighting and sculptures evoking hanok (traditional Korean houses), became a popular photo spot. Many visitors expressed their admiration for the beauty of traditional Korean architecture, some encountering it for the first time.
Educational Aspirations and Cultural Experiences
Beyond the food stalls, a major draw was the university consultation booth, where students from Danang flocked to inquire about admission processes, academic programs, dormitory life, and scholarship opportunities. A traditional Korean game experience corner, featuring tuho (arrow throwing), also provided moments of laughter and fun for students.
Tran Thi Mai, an 18-year-old high school student from Danang, shared her enthusiasm: “I first learned about Korea through K-pop and dramas, but today, after tasting the food and receiving university consultations, I really want to study abroad in Korea. The tteokbokki was also much tastier than I expected!”
Beyond the Park: Art, Film, and Martial Arts
The festival’s influence extended beyond the East Sea Park. At the Danang Museum of Fine Arts, an interactive media art exhibition by Gwangyang City captivated audiences. Visitors were amazed by the digital media wall that responded to their gestures, with waves of digital imagery flowing across the screen. Many students repeatedly tried the interactive displays, calling their friends to share the novel experience.
Furthermore, the ‘Korean Story Festival’ was held on August 8th and 9th at CGV Vincom Plaza, offering free Korean film screenings to approximately 500 local residents. The films ‘Exit’ and ‘The Pirates’ were shown, allowing attendees to enjoy Korean daily life, K-food, and K-culture depicted on screen.
The festival culminated on the main stage with a captivating joint demonstration by Korean Taekwondo practitioners and Vietnam’s traditional martial art, Vovinam. Young students of various belt levels, from white to black, showcased their disciplined forms, followed by impressive breaking demonstrations. The air filled with cheers and applause as participants executed powerful kicks and maneuvers, blending the dynamic energy of Taekwondo with the unique grappling and joint-lock techniques of Vovinam. This martial arts fusion highlighted the spirit of mutual respect and cultural appreciation between the two nations.
Fostering Deeper Understanding
Ambassador Han Jong-moo, the Consul General of Korea in Danang, expressed his hopes for the event: “Through active people-to-people, cultural, and economic exchanges, I hope this festival serves as an opportunity for the people of both our nations to understand each other more deeply and to further solidify our relationship.” The festival successfully provided a rich tapestry of Korean experiences, fostering goodwill and strengthening the bonds between Korea and Vietnam.
