At a seminar held on November 8 at Van Lang University, Vietnamese Tourism Ambassador to South Korea, Ly Xuong Can, a descendant of the Ly Dynasty, delivered a poignant speech that illuminated the 800-year-old historical bond between Vietnam and Korea.
Despite only having a fraction of Vietnamese ancestry, Can embodies a profound love and devotion to his cultural roots.
Speaking to a captivated audience, Can imparted a vital message to the younger generations: to cherish and take pride in Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage, no matter where their journeys lead them.
This message was brought to life through Can’s retelling of the story of Prince Ly Long Tuong, whom he affectionately dubbed ‘the forgotten prince.’
Born in 1174 to Emperor Ly Anh Tong, the prince came of age during a tumultuous time for the Ly Dynasty, just before it ceded power to the Tran Dynasty.
In 1226, as the Tran Dynasty rose to power, Prince Ly Long Tuong, along with loyal followers of the Ly Dynasty, departed from Vietnam in search of a safe haven where they could preserve their family’s legacy.
They found refuge on the Korean Peninsula, where they not only sought shelter but also dedicated themselves to defending Korea from external threats.
Over the centuries, the Ly family seamlessly integrated into Korean society, fostering a lasting connection between the two nations.
Today, descendants like Can carry on this legacy, serving as cultural ambassadors and strengthening the enduring ties between Vietnam and Korea.
The Ly family in South Korea has diligently preserved their Vietnamese cultural heritage across generations.
For Can, this connection to his roots is intrinsic to his sense of self.
“Perhaps this is my destiny or mission,” he shared with Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper. “I believe I was meant to return to my roots and build a bridge between my two homelands, my two cultures.”
A Legacy of Heritage and Unity
Can’s first visit to Vietnam in 1994 was a pivotal moment. He was embraced with open arms by the people and the government, making him feel like a long-lost relative returning home.
This experience solidified his resolve to contribute to Vietnam’s progress and fueled his passion for the country’s development.
In recognition of his dedication, Can was appointed Vietnamese Tourism Ambassador to South Korea for the third term (2024-2029). In this role, he enthusiastically promotes Vietnam to Korean audiences and the world.
“As an ambassador, I strive to showcase the untapped potential of lesser-known Vietnamese regions to South Korean investors,” Can explained. “However, I also hope that the Vietnamese government will develop strategies to attract investment to under-resourced areas, such as the central region, the Mekong Delta, and northern provinces outside Hanoi.”
A Community of Shared Affection
With a growing online presence on platforms like TikTok and YouTube, Can has found countless opportunities to connect with the Vietnamese community, both within Vietnam and across the globe.
“I am consistently touched by the warmth and support of Vietnamese people whenever I post on social media,” he expressed. “On TikTok, I am greeted with nothing but positivity from Vietnamese viewers. Their comments are filled with appreciation and encouragement, reflecting the deep love and pride we share for our common heritage.”
Each word of encouragement serves as a reminder of the powerful impact of cultural connection and shared roots.
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