Bonghwa County and Vietnam cultural cooperation

Bonghwa County and Vietnamese officials have initiated collaborative efforts to strengthen cultural, educational, and economic ties based on shared historical heritage. Initial discussions between Bonghwa County officials and a delegation from Ho Chi Minh City focused on the Lê (Ly) dynasty, specifically the 13th-century Prince Yi Yong-sang, who settled in the region.

These early talks aimed to develop joint cultural-arts content, including theater performances, exhibitions, and educational programs, to establish a cultural-tourism hub. This effort is part of the ‘K-Vietnam Valley’ project, which envisions a historic park and shared cultural-exchange spaces.

Following these meetings, cooperation has expanded to include diplomatic discussions between Mayor Choi Ki-young and Vietnamese Ambassador Vu Ho. The partnership now seeks to leverage the 800th anniversary of Prince Ly Yong-sang’s settlement to host commemorative events, attract a Vietnamese Cultural Center, and establish a multicultural international school. Furthermore, the ‘K-Vietnam Valley’ project has gained momentum after being designated as a regional specialized development zone by the Ministry of SMEs and Startups, aiming to integrate historical content with economic cooperation.