This man draws visitors to Vietnam’s Dong Van with viral traditional dances

Sung Manh Hung, 34, also known as Hung Ha Giang, has become a familiar name to people who love Dong Van Ancient Town in former Ha Giang Province, now part of Tuyen Quang Province.

Three years ago, Hung’s first videos featuring traditional Hmong dances went viral, bringing more visitors to Dong Van eager to meet him and experience local culture.

Without making an appointment, visitors can gather at 8:00 pm at the community activity area in Dong Van Ancient Town to join Hung in singing and dancing.

It is also where the dances and flute music of the Hmong people in Dong Van have reached audiences around the world.

Recalling the situation three years ago, Hung said Dong Van Ancient Town had no community activities at the time, and visitors mainly came to walk around and admire the old town.

As someone who enjoys community activities, Hung came up with the idea of creating a space where people could connect with one another and express a spirit of solidarity and love for Vietnam.

“Every place has its own distinctive features. Dong Van is home to many ethnic minority groups, and each has its own cultural beauty,” Hung said.

“That is why I want visitors who come here not only to admire scenic spots and national-level heritage sites, but also to immerse themselves in the cultural spaces of ethnic minority communities.”

Hung performs traditional Hmong dances while adapting them so that visitors of all backgrounds can join in.

“I was lucky that when I built my channel, digital platforms directed my videos to people in many countries,” Hung said.

“Many international visitors called me directly and said they wanted to come to Dong Van to have fun and explore the area.

“Many told me, ‘Wow, I didn’t think that such a remote place in Vietnam could have such a fun activity.’ 

"They also shared in short interviews on my page that anyone who has not been to Ha Giang should visit it at least once in their lifetime because the place is wonderful."

According to Hung, community cultural activities can take place anywhere because Vietnamese people have a strong sense of patriotism.

When revolutionary songs or songs praising the country are played, everyone can come together and move to the same rhythm.

And Dong Van has indeed changed after three years. More visitors are coming and staying longer instead of simply passing through.

Speaking to Tuoi Tre, Pham Duc Nam, chairman of the Dong Van Commune People’s Committee, said Hung has helped spread local culture to visitors, particularly international tourists.

To date, Dong Van has recorded visitors from 124 countries.

Each visitor can in turn help promote Dong Van to more international travelers through their own social media accounts.