Vietnam-RoK Cultural Exchange at “Vietnamese Village” in RoK
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Amid the vibrant atmosphere of the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day (September 2), Lee Chang Kun shared with VietnamTimes magazine about his long-standing bond with Vietnam, along with his emotions and new plans.

It is known that in mid-August 2025, you had the opportunity to attend the welcoming activities for General Secretary To Lam and the high-ranking Vietnamese delegation in the RoK. Could you share some memories from this event?

On the afternoon of August 10 in Seoul (RoK), within the framework of the State visit, General Secretary To Lam and the high-ranking Vietnamese delegation met with RoK friends. The program was jointly organized by the Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organizations and the Embassy of Vietnam in RoK. I, along with several members of the Ly Hoa Son clan, had the honor of attending.

I was deeply moved when I heard the General Secretary affirm that relations between the two countries are flourishing, with the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership being elevated on the foundation of historical ties. I firmly believe this visit will further promote mutually beneficial cooperation and make the two countries sustainable comprehensive partners. This is even more meaningful as the Vietnamese people are joyfully celebrating the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day on September 2.

On August 10, in Seoul, Korea, Lee Chang Kun (front row, second from left) had the honor of attending the meeting between General Secretary To Lam and the high-ranking Vietnamese delegation with RoK friends.

Immersed in the atmosphere of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day, as a Vietnamese citizen, what would you like to share?

Since the initiation of Doi Moi in 1986, Vietnam has demonstrated its potential for sustainable development with many achievements. In 1995, during his visit to the RoK, the late General Secretary Do Muoi expressed confidence that Vietnam would develop as rapidly as the RoK. Today, that has gradually become a reality, with Vietnam experiencing strong growth. On July 1, 2025, Vietnam officially implemented the two-tier local government system.

General Secretary To Lam was the first state guest to visit the RoK after President Lee Jae-myung took office on June 4, 2025. The RoK President praised Vietnam as a great nation. The visit of the General Secretary generated excitement and drew significant attention from the RoK media.

I believe that with the achievements gained over the past 80 years, along with strategic reforms in administrative restructuring, Vietnam will enter a new era, bringing prosperity and happiness to its people while creating momentum to rise as a global power.

Lee Chang Kun presenting a silk scroll to the late General Secretary Do Muoi.

Since your first return to Vietnam more than 30 years ago, what has impressed you the most when comparing then and now?

When I first returned to Vietnam in 1994, Hanoi felt unfamiliar to me. But the more I became attached to the country, the more I realized how cheerful the people were, always with warm smiles. The dynamism and confidence of young people inspired my belief in a bright future. In many cities, modern buildings have transformed urban landscapes, streets are busier with cars, motorbikes, and even electric vehicles. Today, visitors can easily make payments for food, drinks, and shopping without cash - a remarkable change compared to 30 years ago.

If you were to choose one image to describe Vietnam’s transformation, what would it be?

Vietnam’s development can be compared to a young man growing into maturity: strong, healthy, and resilient.

The meeting with between General Vo Nguyen Giap and Lee Chang Kun in 2000.

You are now serving your third consecutive term as Vietnam’s Tourism Ambassador to the RoK. What has motivated you to remain in this role?

I was first appointed in 2017, then reappointed for a second term. In 2024, I was entrusted with a third term (2024-2029). In this role, I have consistently worked to encourage and support the development of tourism between Vietnam and the RoK. Although I was born in the RoK, my heart has always been with Vietnam, that is my greatest motivation. I hope this passion will endure, even after my term ends. Over the years, whenever Vietnamese leaders visited the RoK, I proposed the establishment of a Vietnam Cultural and Tourism Center in the RoK to attract and retain more visitors. I look forward to seeing this vision realized soon.

As Vietnam’s Tourism Ambassador to the RoK, what new developments do you expect in the next five years?

I hope to see significant innovations in tourism over the next five years. With growth potential across many key sectors, Vietnam will advance smart tourism based on modern technology and digital payments. In particular, the international QR payment system and the diversification of payment methods at home and abroad will enhance convenience and improve the experience for international travelers.

Today, Vietnam is no longer unfamiliar to Koreans. Many RoK airlines are expanding routes to Vietnam, with the advantage of convenient distance being a major attraction. In addition, the rise of artificial intelligence and widespread use of smartphones have shortened the information gap in tourism between the two countries. By promoting the unique beauty and characteristics of Vietnam’s regions, I believe tourism will continue to flourish, indirectly contributing to Vietnam’s economic growth.

Lee Chang Kun with the novel about Prince Ly Long Tuong. (Photo: H.M.)

As an entrepreneur, what is your view on Vietnam’s Resolution 68 on promoting the private sector economy?

Resolution 68 on economic reform is a strategic policy, identifying the private sector as a vital driver of the national economy. It provides private enterprises with greater opportunities and fairness in business and production, thereby fostering a more equitable society. At the same time, private companies also have more opportunities to participate in government projects.

From your experience in the RoK, what advantages do Vietnamese private enterprises have when cooperating with Korean businesses?

In the RoK, rapid development coupled with perseverance has created a solid foundation of experience, capital, and technology. For Vietnamese businesses, actively engaging with a spirit of learning will bring many benefits. Based on the customs and Confucian traditions shared by both nations, I believe there are many similarities for cooperation. In particular, Koreans consider helping others a noble virtue and are willing to share with those who know how to communicate. Therefore, we must actively engage, adopting what is good and practical for ourselves.

Thank you so much!

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