Friendship Cities: Gwangju and Nghe An – A Friendship Rooted in Shared Spirit

By Quynh Chau

When two regions share a heart for community, resilience, and hope, distance becomes only a detail. Such is the story of the friendship between Gwangju Metropolitan City and Nghe An Province in Vietnam – a partnership that has quietly but steadily grown since their friendship and cooperation agreement, connecting two locales rich in history and human warmth.

The Beginning of Friendship

The friendship and cooperation agreement between Gwangju and Nghe An was established to strengthen cultural, economic, and people- to-people exchanges. Gwangju, known as the City of Light and the heart of Korea’s democratic movement, and Nghe An, famous as the hometown of President Ho Chi Minh, both represent the spirit of freedom, perseverance, and compassion.

The partnership began with the aim of promoting mutual understanding, economic collaboration, and cultural exchange between local governments, businesses, and citizens. Over the years, delegations from both sides have exchanged visits, signed cooperation memorandums, and explored joint projects in areas such as education, culture, and environmental sustainability.

About Nghe An Province

Located in north-central Vietnam, Nghe An is the largest province in the country, blessed with a harmonious blend of mountains, rivers, and a long coastline stretching over 80 kilometers. Its capital city, Vinh, is a rapidly developing urban center that connects northern and central Vietnam through both highway and seaport systems.

Nghe An is not only geographically large but also historically and culturally rich. It is the birthplace of President Ho Chi Minh, whose legacy continues to inspire generations of Vietnamese. The province is also known for its traditional folk songs such as Ví and Giặm, recognized by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage.

Today, Nghe An is emerging as a hub for logistics, manufacturing, and education, attracting investment from both domestic and international partners. Its people are known for their diligence, hospitality, and deep sense of community – qualities that echo the spirit of Gwangju.

Cooperation in Action

Since the signing of their friendship agreement, Gwangju and Nghe An have explored multiple ways to strengthen their relationship. As cultural exchange, artists and cultural groups from both sides have participated in festivals and exchange events, introducing traditional Korean and Vietnamese arts to new audiences. As educational cooperation, universities and institutions have discussed joint research, student exchanges, and language training programs to help young generations understand each other’s cultures. In economic and environmental collaboration, local governments have exchanged ideas about urban development, renewable energy, and smart city initiatives, sharing experiences that could support both regions’ sustainable futures.

Looking Toward the Future

The friendship between Gwangju and Nghe An is still young, but it stands on a solid foundation of mutual respect and shared aspirations. In the future, both regions hope to expand cooperation in digital innovation, youth entrepreneurship, and climate resilience – fields where local governments and communities can make a global impact together.

For Gwangju citizens, learning about Nghe An is not just about discovering another place – it’s about understanding how friendship can grow across borders, guided by empathy and shared values. As the world becomes more connected, stories like Gwangju and Nghe An’s remind us that true friendship between cities begins with the heart and lasts through collaboration and understanding.

Cover Photo: Folk singers perform Ví and Giặm, the traditional folk music of Nghệ Tĩnh. (Việt Nam Hội Nhập)