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Vietnamese artists shine at Korean Expo 2025 with a fusion of tradition and modernity

A rare moment of Asian unity unfolded in Paris as Vietnamese musicians wove centuries-old traditions into contemporary beats. Discover how this performance bridged two nations through art.

The image shows a group of people standing on top of a stage, illuminated by lights at the top and...
The image shows a group of people standing on top of a stage, illuminated by lights at the top and surrounded by plants at the bottom. In the background, there is a large screen, suggesting that the group is performing a traditional Korean dance.

Vietnamese artists shine at Korean Expo 2025 with a fusion of tradition and modernity

Vietnamese artists took centre stage at the Korean Expo 2025 in Paris on October 4. The performance, blending traditional and modern styles, highlighted cultural ties between Vietnam and South Korea. Only these two Asian nations were represented through cultural contributions at the event.

The showcase featured musicians from the Vietnamese Cultural Centre in France. Their setlist included both classic and contemporary pieces, reflecting the depth of Vietnamese heritage and its connection to Korean influences.

The event unfolded at the 15th arrondissement of Paris, organised by the Association Mes Amis (AMA) alongside local authorities. Among the attendees were the Vietnamese Ambassador to France, the district's mayor, and AMA President Ju Hee Jeong. Su A Lee, AMA Vice President, later explained that the invitation to Vietnamese artists underscored the group's strong bond with the Vietnamese community in France. It also signalled a broader ambition to foster cultural exchange between Vietnam and the Republic of Korea.

On stage, the artists delivered a programme rich in variety. Traditional melodies like *'Đất Nước Lời Ru'* and the resonant tones of the *đàn bầu* shared space with a fusion arrangement of the Korean hit *'Onara'*. The performance also celebrated the energy of Vietnam's Central Highlands through the *T'rưng* bamboo xylophone, while evoking the festive spirit of Tết. These elements were carefully woven together to bridge Vietnamese and Korean artistic traditions. Tăng Thanh Sơn, Vice Director of the Vietnamese Cultural Centre in France and a Meritorious Artist, later emphasised the importance of such exchanges. He noted that international platforms like the expo allow nations to present their unique identities while building stronger global relationships. The expo itself aimed to deepen connections through music, cuisine, and performing arts, reinforcing cultural dialogue among participating countries.

The Vietnamese delegation's participation marked a rare instance of Asian representation at the Korean Expo 2025. Their performance combined time-honoured instruments with contemporary fusion, leaving a distinct impression on attendees. The event also served as a reminder of the growing cultural links between Vietnam and South Korea in France's multicultural landscape.

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