Thanks to its outstanding international values in geology, culture, and landscape along with the determined efforts of local authorities and people, and support from relevant ministries and agencies, the Lang Son Geopark was officially recognised as a UNESCO Global Geopark in September 2024, and UNESCO formally conferred the title in April 2025.

This recognition marks a significant milestone, officially placing Lang Son in the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network, which currently includes 229 sites across 50 countries worldwide.

Spanning nearly 5,000 square kilometers, the Lang Son Geopark is home to more than 100 notable geological, cultural, and archaeological heritage sites. Beyond its geological significance, the park also showcases spectacular natural landscapes, revolutionary history, and the rich, diverse cultural identity of local ethnic communities.

Speaking at the award ceremony on June 28, Ho Tien Thieu, deputy secretary of the Provincial Party Committee and chairman of the Lang Son People's Committee, emphasised that this is a historic turning point that opens up vast opportunities for Lang Son to harness its potential and advantages, promote sustainable tourism development and position the province as a growth pole and economic hub of the northern midland and mountainous region.

Jonathan Wallace Baker, UNESCO Representative in Vietnam, noted that Lang Son Geopark offers valuable insights into the evolution of life over millions of years, and that studying its geological history can help nations better understand and respond to global challenges such as climate change.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ngo Le Van stressed that localities should incorporate principles of sustainable development into the management and operation of geoparks to ensure harmony and progress. He affirmed that the UNESCO recognition is a clear testament to Vietnam's ongoing efforts to preserve and promote its cultural heritage alongside intangible heritage such as the Mother Goddess worship and Then singing of the Tay, Nung, and Thai ethnic groups.

On this occasion, Lang Son announced a comprehensive action plan for the 2025–2030 period to develop the Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark. The plan focuses on reviewing and completing conservation and sustainable development planning, as well as improving transport infrastructure connecting heritage sites.

The province will also intensify research, surveys, digitalisation, and the systematisation of geological, cultural, and ecological values to build an integrated database. In parallel, it will develop unique tourism products reflecting local identity, combining geological, cultural, historical, and culinary values to serve conservation and promotion efforts effectively.

Lang Son UNESCO Global Geopark is Vietnam’s fourth global geopark, following Dong Van Karst Plateau (Ha Giang), Non Nuoc Cao Bang, and Dak Nong Geopark, reinforcing Vietnam’s position on the global geological heritage map.

UNESCO honours Lang Son Geopark of Vietnam with global title

VOV.VN - The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) held a ceremony to present certificates of recognition to newly designated UNESCO Global Geoparks, including Lang Son Geopark of Vietnam, at its headquarters in Paris on June 2.