The programme aims to honour the historical depth and cultural identity of Thang Long–Hanoi, while conveying a message of continuity of tradition, continuity between past and present, and friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and countries around the world.

At the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, ceremonial drums sounded to open the programme, evoking court ritual traditions symbolising solemnity and prosperity. This was followed by a traditional lion dance expressing wishes for good fortune and symbolising peace and prosperity, commonly performed at major national ceremonies.

In a warm, friendly and cordial atmosphere, Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and his spouse, together with President Lee Jae Myung and his spouse, moved to Doan Mon Gate, one of the main entrances to the Forbidden City of Thang Long, where 52 rulers and the royal court lived and conducted court life over 800 years.

They then visited the exhibition “A Thousand Years of Thang Long–Hanoi History from Underground” and the “Treasures of the Thang Long Imperial Palace” exhibition, displaying artefacts recognised as national treasures.

At Kinh Thien Palace, the two leaders and their spouses heard an introduction to the site, where kings and court officials discussed state affairs, held court sessions, received foreign envoys and conducted major royal ceremonies over 800 years at the Thang Long capital.

In a traditional tea setting, they held informal exchanges and watched traditional performances.

The programme opened with Xoan singing, a traditional art form originating from Phu Tho province and associated with the worship of the Hung Kings, the first rulers of Vietnam. This was followed by Nha nhac, Vietnamese court music developed across feudal dynasties and recognised by UNESCO in 2003 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Hue Chau van was then performed, a ritual singing form associated with folk beliefs, combining music, lyrics and performance to express respect for ancestors and aspirations for peace and prosperity.

The programme concluded with the Luc cung hoa dang dance, an ancient ritual dance expressing reverence and wishes for national peace and stability.

The special friendship programme at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel shows respect for Vietnam’s historical values and provides an opportunity to introduce the country’s historical and cultural depth through the recreation of a traditional court diplomatic atmosphere, while highlighting Vietnam’s hospitality and peaceful spirit.

Top Vietnamese leader, RoK President visit Thang Long Imperial Citadel

VOV.VN - Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and his spouse, together with President of the Republic of Korea (RoK) Lee Jae Myung and his spouse, attended a special friendship programme at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel on the morning of April 24, as part of the state visit to Vietnam.

RoK First Lady experiences Korea Culture and Tourism Festival in Vietnam

First Lady of the Republic of Korea Kim Hea-kyung attended the Korea Culture and Tourism Festival 2026 with a wide range of vibrant activities in Hanoi on April 23, as part of President Lee Jae-myung’s state visit to Vietnam.