(VOVWORLD) - Xoe Thai, the unique traditional dance of the Thai ethnic minority in Vietnam, was recognized by UNESCO as a Representative Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity on Wednesday. This is Vietnam’s 14th Intangible Cultural Heritage recognized by UNESCO.
 A Xoe Thai dance performance at the opening ceremony of the Muong Lo Cultural and Tourism Festival 2018. |
The recognition will help preserve and promote Xoe Thai among Thai ethnic minority people in Vietnam, according to Do Van Tru, President of the Vietnam Cultural Heritage Association.
"I was extremely proud and emotional when Xoe Thai dance beat several other entries to be recognized by UNESCO," said Tru, "It shows that the traditional dance has a great value. Xoe Thai dance is performed in many localities, mainly in Son La, Lai Chau, Dien Bien, Yen Bai, and Lao Cai provinces. It represents national spirit and the richness of Vietnamese culture. We need to better preserve, educate, and promote this cultural heritage.”
Xoe Thai dance originates from the Thai ethnic minority people’s community in northwestern Vietnam. The traditional dance has been their symbol of hospitality for generations.