On August 6–7, 2025, the Vietnam-Korea Cultural Exchange Program, a highlight of the 2025 Incheon Education Festival, took place in Da Nang, Vietnam. Co-organized by the Korean Language Center in Ho Chi Minh City (affiliated with Korea’s Ministry of Education) and the East Asia International Education Institute of Incheon, the event marked a pivotal moment in strengthening educational ties between Korea and Central Vietnam’s academic institutions, particularly the Korean Language Department at Duy Tan University’s School of Language, Humanities, and Social Sciences (LHSS).

The program was thoughtfully designed to blend academic rigor with vibrant cultural immersion, fostering mutual understanding and providing hands-on exposure to Korean culture. Nearly 100 students from Duy Tan University, alongside other Korean language majors, participated with enthusiasm, making the event a resounding success.

On August 6, the East Asia International Education Institute hosted five specialized workshops for LHSS students. Each session, led by four Korean experts and engaging 20 Vietnamese students, explored key facets of Korean popular culture: K-POP, K-DRAMA, K-DANCE, K-FOOD, and K-BEAUTY. These themes, globally celebrated and particularly resonant with Vietnamese youth, came alive through interactive activities. Students learned K-pop choreography, prepared authentic Korean dishes, practiced K-beauty techniques, and analyzed the storytelling of Korean cinema and music. Conducted bilingually in Korean and English, the workshops created a dynamic, cross-cultural learning environment.

Dr. Dang Thuy Lien, Vice Dean of LHSS at Duy Tan University, delivered a keynote address underscoring the program’s role in deepening ties with Korean educational institutions. She highlighted how the exchange enriched students’ linguistic proficiency, cultural knowledge, and global perspectives. Dr. Thuy Lien expressed optimism for sustained partnerships, envisioning future initiatives to advance high-quality education and training.

The program’s impact extended beyond Duy Tan University. On August 7, Korean volunteers expanded their outreach to other Da Nang universities, promoting further educational collaboration and cultural exchange. These efforts reinforced the spirit of bilateral friendship and shared learning.

Hong Them, a student representative from Duy Tan University, captured the event’s significance during the opening ceremony: “This cultural exchange is an exciting opportunity to explore Korea’s vibrant culture alongside our Korean peers. It’s a chance to learn, connect, and grow together.” Her words reflected the students’ eagerness to embrace globalized education and cultural integration.

Meticulously organized and fueled by the dedication of Korean experts and the enthusiasm of participants, the 2025 Vietnam-Korea Cultural Exchange left an indelible mark. For Duy Tan University, the event aligned with its commitment to practice-integrated training, equipping Korean language students with the skills, knowledge, and passion to excel in their studies and engage with Korean culture authentically.

This initiative not only celebrated the vibrancy of Korean culture but also laid a strong foundation for future educational collaborations, fostering enduring connections between Vietnam and Korea.