The Vietnamese creation The Sacred Soul of Vietnam triumphed at the Ocean International Lantern Festival, wowing judges with its cultural depth and environmental innovation.
The creation Hồn Thiêng Đất Việt (The Sacred Soul of Vietnam) by Hoi An Craft team won first prize at the Ocean International Lantern Festival’s design competition, showcasing Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage to the world.
The Sacred Soul of Vietnam by Hoi An Craft.
The festival officially opened on January 18, featuring the announcement of the winners in the inaugural international lantern design competition hosted in Vietnam. This event attracted master artisans from major lantern-making traditions, including China, Japan, South Korea, and Thailand.
Hoi An Craft’s The Sacred Soul of Vietnam was awarded first place, followed by Qilin – The God of Fortune by Seo Deok Hwan of South Korea in second place, and Long Phượng Sum Vầy (Reunion of the Dragon and the Phoenix) by Vietnam’s Sac Mau Cuoc Song team in third.
Honorable mentions included Lạc Long Quân Trở Về (Lac Long Quan Returns) by Sac Mau Thanh Tuyen (Vietnam), Đôi Cánh Tương Lai (Wings of Future) by Shuixiu Gong (China), and Lễ Tế Sajik & Nongak (Sajik Ceremony & Nongak) by Lee Sang Moo (South Korea).
The Ocean International Lantern Festival runs until March 6 in Ocean City.
A blend of tradition and innovation
Lac Long Quan Returns by Sac Mau Thanh Tuyen.
The Sacred Soul of Vietnam earned praise from Chen Jia, Cultural Director at Yuyuan INC and a competition judge, who noted how the Hoi An artisans infused their lantern with Vietnam’s rich cultural and historical essence.
The lantern featured eco-friendly materials, particularly water coconut shells, highlighting both creativity and environmental awareness.
“This material transforms the piece into a standalone work of art during the day and a luminous sculpture at night, offering viewers two completely different aesthetic experiences,” Chen Jia remarked.
She added that the intricate carvings and use of light conveyed a deep sense of pride and love for Vietnam’s history while elevating its traditional culture.
“We’ve seen many forms of creativity in lantern-making worldwide, but the Vietnamese artisans’ approach is truly unique and deeply moving,” she said.
Celebrating cultural excellence
Reunion of the Dragon and the Phoenix by Sac Mau Cuoc Song.
The event celebrates both the artistry and cultural storytelling of lantern-making. Other notable entries included:
Lac Long Quan Returns, a tribute to the legendary ancestor of the Vietnamese people.
Reunion of the Dragon and the Phoenix, symbolizing unity and harmony.
Wings of Future, a futuristic interpretation by Chinese artisans.
Sajik Ceremony & Nongak, showcasing traditional Korean rituals and music.
The festival aims to strengthen cultural connections and highlight the artistry of lantern-making traditions across the globe.
Wings of Future by Shuixiu Gong, China.
Sajik Ceremony & Nongak by Lee Sang Moo, South Korea.
Tinh Le
