THE HANOI TIMES — Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, the Vietnam Press Museum quietly unravels the narrative of a nation’s journey, captured through the lens of journalism.
Within its walls lie thousands of documents, artifacts, and personal tales, preserving the evolution of Vietnamese journalism. It serves as a testament to not just the development of the press but also the country’s historical and social transformation.
Tran Thi Kim Hoa, from the museum’s management, asserts that Vietnamese journalism has been intrinsically linked to the nation’s story from its inception. Since the debut of Vietnam’s first newspaper on April 15, 1865, and the subsequent birth of the revolutionary press with the establishment of Thanh Nien on June 21, 1925, journalism has played a dual role as a recorder of history and a catalyst for change in the fight for independence.
The museum offers a cultural journey into the world of journalism and its impact on national development. Photo: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times
Hoa highlights that the museum’s collection boasts over 20,000 items and documents, including 700 rare exhibits showcasing significant milestones in Vietnamese press history. It provides a comprehensive glimpse into the past and present of journalism in Vietnam.
The exhibition is thoughtfully divided into five distinct sections, each representing a pivotal era: 1865–1925, 1925–1945, 1945–1954, 1954–1975, and 1975 to the present. Spanning nearly 1,500 square meters, the exhibition area utilizes television, radio, and digital technology to enhance the visitor experience.
One of the museum’s standout features is the pen symbol resting on a backdrop of lotus petals, representing the ethics and integrity of journalism. This symbol is showcased in the section dedicated to the early days of the Vietnamese press from 1865 to 1925.
The museum also includes a solemn tribute to journalists who made the ultimate sacrifice for their nation and the revolutionary press, honoring their legacy and courage.
“This museum brings to life the evolution of the press, from a tool of resistance to a champion of peace, underscoring the pivotal role journalism plays in defending our nation,” Hoa added.
A notable exhibit is the 2.1-meter-long propaganda loudspeaker used along the Ben Hai River, capable of reaching audiences up to 10 kilometers away. Photo: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times
Among the artifacts on display is a powerful 500-watt loudspeaker that once sat on the northern bank of the Ben Hai River in Quang Tri province. Through this loudspeaker, the Voice of Vietnam radio program was broadcast, uniting compatriots on both sides of the North-South divide during the war.
The museum also showcases the People’s “newspaper bunker,” which withstood bombings, the darkroom of the Vietnam News Agency, and the “heavenly horse” camera that played a role in the birth of Vietnamese television—each artifact a testament to the resilience and determination of Vietnam’s journalistic journey.
The museum’s staff has diligently sourced these artifacts and original documents, creating a profound impact on visitors, especially journalists, who find themselves reflecting on their own contributions to this evolving narrative.
Embracing technological advancements, the museum utilizes digital platforms to showcase valuable documents and connect with a global audience. In addition to its ancient newspaper displays, the museum expands its scope to include the digital age, where information transcends paper and takes on new forms through websites, social media, and mobile applications.
The Vietnam Press Museum stands as a guardian of Vietnam’s journalistic heritage, inspiring future generations to forge their paths and leave their mark on this ever-evolving landscape.
During the war against American troops from 1954 to 1975, North Vietnam’s media landscape witnessed significant developments in print, radio, and television, all focused on building socialism and supporting the South. Photo: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times
As Tran Thi Kim Hoa poignantly states, “With young people navigating opportunities and challenges in journalism amid rapid technological change, the Vietnam Press Museum serves as an indispensable source of knowledge and inspiration.”
As the 100th anniversary of the Vietnamese Revolutionary Press approaches (June 21, 1925–2025), the museum is attracting visitors eager to trace the footsteps of Vietnam’s journalistic evolution.
Nguyen Anh Thu, a student from the Academy of Journalism and Communication, shared her thoughts after visiting the museum: “The Vietnamese revolutionary press has come a long way, and its strength fills me with pride. It inspires me to contribute to the country’s press, building upon the foundations laid by previous generations.”
Thu added, “The Vietnam Press Museum is a fascinating destination, preserving the legacy of both global and Vietnamese revolutionary journalism, and it should be on everyone’s list.”
Ho Quang Loi, a journalist and Vice President of the Digital Media Association, was deeply moved as he explored the exhibits. He expressed his pride in the Vietnamese Revolutionary Press and its significant role in national liberation and progress.
“The Vietnam Press Museum,” he said, “is not just about journalism; it encapsulates the history of our country and our people. It is a living testament to our struggles, our culture, and our journey towards development.”
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