How are Vietnam and the world telling their cultural stories? | Trần Nguyên Khang | TEDxHCMUS
Soft power is a crucial concept in international relations, emphasizing attraction and persuasion rather than coercion. Among its key resources, culture, and history play a vital role in shaping a nation's image and influence on the global stage. Vietnam, with its rich historical heritage and diverse cultural traditions, is leveraging these assets to enhance its global appeal.
This talk will explore how Vietnam utilizes culture and history to build its soft power, focusing on museums. Notably, the younger generation, particularly Gen Z, has played a dynamic role in creatively retelling Vietnam’s cultural and historical narratives, fostering greater international recognition and appreciation. Additionally, the talk will balance the differences between Vietnam’s approach to soft power with that of other nations, such as the United States and Japan, offering insights into effective cultural diplomacy strategies. By examining these perspectives, the discussion aims to highlight valuable lessons for Vietnam’s future efforts in promoting its cultural identity on the world stage. Basic information:
Full name: Tran Nguyen Khang
Prominent scholar in the field of international relations and soft power studies. Currently working as a lecturer in the Department of International Relations at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities (USSH), Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City.
Working experience
Master of Political Science in France, 2008
PhD in International Relations, Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, 2017
Visiting Professor at the University of Findlay, Ohio, USA, 2016
Visiting Associate Professor at Meiji University, Tokyo, Japan, academic years 2020-2021, 2023-2024. 2024-2025
Fulbright Scholar of the US Department of State at George Washington University, Washington DC, USA, 2022-2023 with research on “The construction of America’s soft power through museum diplomacy and its implications for Vietnam”.
Speaker at international conferences, domestic and foreign universities such as Engaging with Vietnam, School of International and Public Affair (Florida International University), University of Wyoming Art Museum, Elliot School of International Affair (George Washington University), Japan Forum on International Relations (JFIR), The Japanese Studies Association in Southeast Asia – ASEAN, The Korean Association for Public Diplomacy, Vietnam Summer and Winter School for Development, Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, Viet Nam Forum: The Moment, and many more…
Author of the book Soft Power of France – Theoretical and Practical Issues (2018)
An idea worth spreading
The role of culture and history as important elements in building Vietnam's soft power. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
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