Take a deeper look at what national identity means by learning about the more than 54 diverse ethnic minority groups currently living in Vietnam.
HmongPrecious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
The Precious Heritage Project
Over the course of nearly a decade, the French photographer Réhahn researched and photo-documented all 54 official ethnic minorities in Vietnam, with the hope of increasing the public’s understanding of tribal culture in the country.
Drying The Fabric by RéhahnPrecious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
NORTHERN VIETNAM
There are at least 33 known ethnicities living in Northern Vietnam out of the more than 54 distinct cultures in the country.
Virtual Exhibit
In this virtual exhibit, you’ll have the opportunity to discover the Pa Then, Cong, Mang, H'mong, Ha Nhi, Thai, La Ha, & Khang ethnic groups.
The detailed handcrafted garments are inspired by the complex curves of flowers.
The Cong by RéhahnPrecious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
Their village was relocated by the government, which caused a loss of knowledge, heritage, and cultural traditions.
Their stilt houses still exist but are now being replaced by concrete buildings.
Their traditional garments are created with indigo and custom embroidery.
Their garments are crafted with indigo and braids made from human hair.
The Thai
The Thai are divided into two subgroups - the White and the Black Thai.
One can tell the difference between the groups because of their traditional garments and their architectural styles. This group has good relations and a strong influence on neighboring ethnic groups.
The La Ha by RéhahnPrecious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
The isolation has helped to preserve their native language. However, in La Ha villages in the lowlands, the language seems to have been lost.
The Khang by RéhahnPrecious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
The province houses more than 12 ethnic groups; as a result, many aspects of these cultures merge with one another. The Khang still speak their indigenous tongue in addition to the Thai language.
The Flower Hmong by RéhahnPrecious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
Learn More
Read more about The Precious Heritage Project and Vietnam's ethnic groups in the article "Discover Vietnam's 54+ Ethnicities - Part 3."
Text by Réhahn with Molly Headley
